NACME


National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering                                      

NACME

The Center for Diversity and Student Success in Engineering and Computing is a proud partner of the NACME STEM Education and Scholarship Program.  

NACME and CDSSEC partner on a matching scholarship program that results in $60,000 of scholarship funding being distributed to a total of 30 students per academic year. In addition to the financial support, students are connected with NACME’s career center that link scholars with more than 50 exclusive corporate partners, provides professional development workshops, and networking opportunities.  

For more information on NACME please visit https://www.nacme.org/ 

Current Students

Ligia Camilla Araque

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Biomedical Engineering

Bio:
Ever since I graduated High school I always knew I wanted to major in Biomedical Engineering, I was lucky enough to have the guidance of other female family members that are in the engineering field. Throughout my courses, I have gained an interest in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. During summer 2021 I will be completing an internship in a biotechnology company and as soon as I graduate in fall 2021 I plan on going into industry and pursue my master’s degree in the near future. I always try to keep an open mind to learn new things and new opportunities.

Sebastian Criollo

Academic Year: Sophomore

Major: Mechanical Engineering

Bio:
I am a second-year student at FIU pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree, with the hopes of graduating and being able to employ my learning in the field of service utilities, with a greater focus in research and development of renewable energies and sustainability of current processes. I am the current president of the FIU ECO Engineering club where we focus on creating a sustainable future through our engineering practices, and I am also the professional development chair for the SHPE FIU chapter, where we dedicate to prepare and allow our members to pursue professional opportunities, whether it’s through internships or full-time positions.

Jocelyn Garcia

Academic Year: Junior

Major: Electrical Engineering

Bio:
I currently have a bioengineering degree from FGCU and during my time there I was exposed to different types of engineering concepts. One of the concepts that we went over is the electrical application that is involved within bioengineering. It has always fascinated me, and it was not until the junior year of my bioengineering degree that I realized how much I enjoyed learning about electrical engineering and how much I did not know/understand electrical engineering. When I decided to come back to school for a second degree it was not a difficult decision to make when I selected electrical engineering, I knew I had so much to learn to understand the electrical applications within the bioengineering industry, mostly the medical device industry. 

Shaylyn Grier

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Biomedical Engineering

Bio:
My name is Shaylyn Grier, and I am a senior Biomedical Engineering student at Florida International University. In my major, science, math, and creativity are combined and applied to address medical challenges. Since my freshman year, conducting research has become one of my greatest interests. In the project I currently conduct research in, I use 3D- modeling software, MATLAB coding, and near infrared spectroscopy sensors to explore prosthesis control approaches. I intend to use the skills I have obtained from my research experience thus far during my graduate studies. During my undergraduate academic career, I developed a curiosity towards chemistry, cell biology, and molecular engineering. My current career aspirations include one day conducting research focused on cancer diagnosis and treatment. Conducting research in this area of study not only presents an opportunity for continued intellectual stimulation, but also a chance to impact the lives of others.

Roberto Hernandez

Academic Year: Junior

Major: Computer Engineering

Bio:
Hello everyone , My name is Roberto Hernandez . I’m currently a third year Computer Engineering student at Florida International University. My interests revolve around Embedded Systems and Computer Architecture. I have been grateful to work on projects that revolve around my interests such as the IEEE Southeastcon Conference Robot and the Formula SAE Vehicle. In embedded systems, I enjoy the aspects of studying that technical bridge that connects both the world of hardware and software together . Using a variety of different tool sets such as processors and Linux.

Matty Sey

Academic Year: Junior

Major: Computer Engineering

Bio:
I grew up around computers all my life, I love everything dealing with technology and I’m excited to continue my journey. Along with my passion for computers I also really love math and science which allows me to have a greater passion for my major. My goal is to work with a team in the developing of nano bots in the medical field that can effectively carry out mediocre to the entire body before a disease reaches and affects the area causing a person to be sick. Overall I’m extremely grateful to receive this award and I will continue to be motivated and purse my dreams as a computer engineer concentrating in nano technology.

Jaquan Starling

Academic Year: Junior

Major: Interdisciplinary Engineering, Minor in Computer Science

Bio:
I’m currently a student studying Interdisciplinary Engineering with a Minor in Computer Science. I currently serve as the Vice President of the Black Student Union, and Outreach Chair for the National Society of Black Engineers. During my time here at FIU I’ve completed internships with NextEra Energy and Bank of America as well as working as a summer undergraduate research fellow underneath the National Science Foundation. I’ve published two books of poems and enjoy giving back to the community. After graduating I plan on working in industry for a couple years and later gaining my masters degree in computer science with a focus on machine learning.

Melissa Venedicto

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Biomedical Engineering

Bio:
My academic interests range from understanding solid-state physics, materials engineering, and biomaterials. Within my biomedical engineering (BME) major, I plan to study the characterization, synthesis, and applications of biomaterials to apply it to my future career. Once I understand this sub-field of BME, I hope to develop innovative drug delivery technologies that can be applied in the medical field. I currently work as an undergraduate student researcher for the NASA-CRE2DO center applying my BME knowledge to different nanomedicine applications. Another goal of mine is to develop wearable sensors that can be used in both the medical field and in space applications. Through being a NACME scholar I will have the support from a community of like-minded individuals that will allow me to network and continue pursuing my academic interests.

Naimah Woods

Academic Year: Senior

Major: Interdisciplinary Engineering

Bio:
My name is Naimah Woods, and I’m a current senior studying Interdisciplinary Engineering. My concentration in Interdisciplinary Engineering in Electrical Engineering In my time at Florida International University, I have been able to serve on two e-boards. Being in leadership positions for both HKN and IEEE has been a pleasure and something I have enjoyed tremendously. Being involved in both organizations has allowed me to find my interests in operations, which I will be doing for my career. They also allowed meeting amazing people who have helped me grow. Being a NACME scholar in my last year and be recognized both for service and academic is great. Due to the recognition I received, I was able to connect with my future employer’s Rolls Royce Holdings. I have to thank the SUCCEED program, our advisor for clubs Julie, and those on both boards for helping me accomplish the NACME scholarship.

Contact Us

Andrew Green, Associate Director
Center for Diversity and Student Success
College of Engineering & Computing
Telephone: 305-348-3819
Email:  agreen@fiu.edu