About

The national SACNAS organization was established in 1973 with the mission of addressing the underrepresentation of Chicano and Native American research trainees and scientists in academia and government. Without the luxuries of modern technology like Zoom and email, the early days of SACNAS involved extensive planning and dedicated organizing efforts, resulting in the first official board meeting taking place on June 1, 1973, at Haskell Indian Junior College in Lawrence, Kansas.  Among the Board's initial objectives, they drafted a proposal for a PAID predoctoral Graduate Fellowship Program aimed at recruiting and training Chicano and Native American PhD students.

Since its inception, SACNAS has remained steadfast in its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the scientific community. The founding members of SACNAS consisted of 3 chemists, 2 biochemists, 3 biologists, 3 physicists, and 2 mathematicians and 4 in other STEM areas, fast forward 50 years later, SACNAS welcomes over 8,000 multicultural and multidisciplinary registered members all over the country.  Every year, the national SACNAS team hosts a scientific conference where scientist, trainees, and representatives of various organizations from all over the country meet to talk about science, culture, advocacy, and opportunities. We encourage you to learn more about the making of SACNAS, their vision, and membership/participation at their website. 

As a chapter of this wonderful organization, SACNAS UMN-TC has been active for over 5+ years (with a small break during COVID19). While the group has been quiet for awhile, the new leadership team starting in 2023 is working diligently to provide new opportunities for students, research trainees, and staff throughout year.  Please feel free to stay connected with us.  We hope to see you at our upcoming events.