9616691 Cuker This project represents a renewal of an ongoing pioneering program which seeks to increase the number of under- represented minorities electing careers in aquatic sciences. The program targets minority students, faculty, and professionals interested in aquatic sciences, as well as majority faculty working at Historically Minority Colleges and Universities (HMCU's). The program is run in conjunction with the American Society of Limnology and Oceanography (ASLO)which provides program participants with free membership to the society including a subscription to the societies Journal, "Limnology and Oceanography". Participants apply through a formal process for participation in the program and those selected are provided with travel and per diem support to participate in the Annual ASLO meeting and to attend special pre-planning workshops. Participants are strongly encouraged to present the results of any research programs they are involved with both in the regular sessions and sessions specifically organized for them. The present program will cultivate the further development of past participants and incorporate new cohorts of students into the process. Since the programs beginnings in 1990, it has supported 222 students and 16 faculty mentors. Through both proven and some novel approaches this project will strengthen and expand the linkages between minority students and the aquatic science community. ***
