When it comes to community, SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science) at the University of Houston embraces it all. SACNAS UH has been named the Chapter of the Year by the organization at the national level. This is the second time in four years the UH chapter has been named the best.
Members take pride in their record of excellence and their passion for celebrating science.
“People tell us, ‘When I think of SACNAS, I think of think of community,’ and I think that shows what we as a chapter and a national organization stand for,” said Chapter president Lorissa Saiz.
Chief financial officer Claudia Franco adds it gives others a sense of belonging. “It helps you grow not only on a personal level, but at an academic level as well.”
The organization’s mission centers on increasing participation in STEM. Projections on its website indicate that by 2060, underserved populations will account for almost 60% of the U.S. population. SACNAS works to ensure the nation’s scientific community grows alongside that trend.
“It feels like what we’re doing matters,” said chapter vice president Yunuen Avila Martinez. “When we put together the application, we realized just how much we’ve accomplished. Even if we hadn’t won, we were proud of the work that we did to be an inviting chapter that supports the community and its members.”
Science Meets Culture
At the heart of SACNAS UH is a commitment to showing younger communities how science and culture are connected. The group emphasizes community connections through partnerships with the Holocaust Museum Houston and the Houston Museum of Natural Sciences. Where members lead bilingual demonstrations, cultural celebrations, and interactive exhibits for families.
“Our ancestors were scientists,” said Saiz. “When kids see that, they realize science isn’t foreign to them. It’s been part of their culture for generations.”
Though its name honors its founders, SACNAS is not limited to Chicano or Native American scientists. The Houston chapter emphasizes that everyone belongs. Their members, officers, and faculty advisors reflect the city of Houston , with events celebrating several cultural traditions alongside academic development.