The local Purdue University chapter was organized by eight charter members in the fall of 1995. This group received their charter from the National chapter at the Detroit 1996 Annual Meeting. The purpose of our local chapter is to provide a support system, which enables minority students (1) to improve their academic performance in science and engineering, (2) provide role models to students from elementary through graduate school, and (3) stimulate interest in pursuing both undergraduate and graduate degrees in scientific disciplines. Our annual chapter activities include: