Message from the Director, Dr. Sandra White

All one has to do is read a newspaper or listen to the news to discern that in this century, employment in the United States is  growing fastest in areas that require knowledge and skills stemming from a strong grasp of science, math and technology to the point that the demand has outstripped the supply.  Our competitiveness in the global marketplace is being threatened by this critical shortage. Education in science and technology and service to both the greater Durham area, the state of North Carolina, and the nation, are fundamental to the mission of NCCU to prepare students academically and professionally and to promote consciousness of social responsibility and dedication to the advancement of the general welfare of the people of North Carolina, the United States and the world. 

NCCU recognizes that to support the economic development of the region and state, increasing numbers of residents, especially minorities, must be prepared to enter careers in science and technology.  In addition, these future members of our work force must be present in sufficient numbers to develop and sustain a cadre of scientist and engineers as the fuel rods for such a technology-driven society.

The economy of North Carolina has shifted dramatically from textiles, manufacturing and agriculture to a knowledge-based economy that requires a well educated and technologically literate workforce.  Knowledge will be to the 21st century what natural resources and manufacturing were to the 20th century. 

The university is preparing itself with state of the art facilities, faculty and programs. As our university moves aggressively forward in the development of new and relevant academic programs and the research base increases logarithmically, we must have a student population ready to capitalize on these initiatives. 

The Center for Science, Math and Technology Education is dedicated to supporting the formation of intellectual capital through:

1. the establishment of a programmatic umbrella under which many of the smaller existing science and math enhancement/enrichment programs at NCCU can  function collaboratively to provide a unified focus on  preparation of students in science and math;
2. the  development of both innovative and comprehensive science and mathematics programs (K-16) designed to assure the production of competitive undergraduate students to pursue advanced studies and careers in math and science; and
3. faculty development initiatives for science and math teachers in the Durham Public Schools through partnering with community organizations and programs within our own university. 

As our university moves aggressively forward in the development of new and relevant academic programs, and the research base increases logarithmically, we must have a student population ready to capitalize on these initiatives.

Sandra L. White, Ph.D., Director
Center for Math, Science and Technology Education