OSI Receives Prestigious Paesmem Award

July 3, 2018

The LSU Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI) was recently named as a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM).

PAESMEM is the highest honor bestowed upon mentors who work to expand STEM talent. The National Science Foundation (NSF) administers the honorary awards program on behalf of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). OSTP selects both individuals and organizations to receive the honor. This year, 27 individuals and 14 organizations were recognized.

Dr. Zakiya Wilson-Kennedy accepted the award on behalf of OSI in Washington, D.C. We are thrilled to share this honor with LSU Department of Chemistry Barre Distinguished Professor Graça Vicente, who received recognition for her work with the Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD) Program.

Since 2001, OSI’s mission has been to increase student academic performance through the creation and implementation of effective initiatives that enhance the overall diversity of LSU’s student body. Through its centralized programs rooted in mentoring, education, and research, OSI has supported more than 800 students at the K-12, community college, undergraduate, and graduate levels.