AFRL and AFOSR Named Top Supporters of Minority Institutions Published March 23, 2009 By Molly Lachance Air Force Office of Scientific Research ARLINGTON, Va. -- In a release issued late last week, US Black Engineer & Information Technology (USBE & IT) magazine announced the 2009 Top Supporters of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and minority-serving institutions. The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) and the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR) both made the list. AFRL and AFOSR recognize that America's future in the global marketplace depends heavily on the development of students from minority-serving institutions dedicated to producing the best scientists, technologists, mathematicians and engineers. The deans of ABET-accredited HBCU and minority institutions evaluated the nominees based on their support for infrastructure modernization and enhancement, research, participation on advisory councils, faculty development opportunities, scholarships, student projects, stipends, co-ops and career opportunities. Mr. Ed Lee, program manager of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities/Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI) program at AFOSR, has worked diligently to promote an Air Force program that meets these criteria. His work has earned him numerous accolades in the AFRL community including his recent election as the Vice President of the AFRL Diversity Task Force Council. "AFOSR is pleased to be included on the 2009 top supporters list, as it shows the positive impact we are having on the various constituents at HBCUs and minority institutions," said Lee. "We hope this recognition will enhance our visibility, and allow us to provide even better support." USBE & IT magazine will list the top corporate organizations and government agencies in the Dean's Edition of the magazine in May 2009. They will also be recognized during the 2010 Black Engineer of the Year Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Global Competitiveness Conference.