Columbia River Professional Chapter honored by AISES

Ctuir Natural Resources

The Columbia River Professional Chapter (CRPC) of the American Indian Science & Engineering Society (AISES) received a national award for professional chapter of the year. AISES National recognized the Chapter at its annual conference last fall in Palm Springs for its outstanding community service.

“You may have seen a booth hosted by CRPC at our Community Picnic in August,” said Kate Ely, a CTUIR employee and member of CRPC. John Cox, a former CTUIR employee and member of the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe, plays Mr. Wizard at science fairs. He is a pied piper of science encouraging Native youths to explore their many options.

Since its establishment in 1993 the CRPC has been an advocate and resource for Indigenous people, particularly those working in STEM careers, throughout the region as well as being a voice and resource to our community, sharing Native American culture, past and present. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and includes a gamut of disciplines.

Over its 30-year history the CRPC, thanks to local sponsors, individual donors, volunteers, friends, and Chapter members, has awarded $35,000 in scholarships to 40 Native American students to assist them in pursuing a college education in STEM or STEM-related fields.

In addition to supporting STEM scholarships, the CRPC engages in a broad range of activities throughout the year including Native American Month, Native American themed activities at public schools, hosting speakers, STEM events and social gatherings.

Scheduled activities and events, membership information, and/or how to make a charitable donation to the CRPC can be found at https://www.facebook.com/AISESCRPC or by contacting AISES-CRPC President, John Cox, at johncox46@live.com, or call 509-375-0269.