Five Alabama A&M University students recently represented the University at the 2025 American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) S-STEM Scholars Conference in San Diego, where they gained valuable professional skills, networked with peers nationwide, and showcased their research.

The national conference, held October 2–4, brought together students and faculty from colleges and universities across the country who participate in the National Science Foundation’s Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM) programs.

The students attended as part of AAMU’s Diversity and Excellence in Food, Environment, and Natural-resource Disciplines (DEFEND) Scholars Program. Supported by a $1.38 million NSF
S-STEM grant, the DEFEND program provides scholarships and academic support to underrepresented STEM majors in the College of Agricultural, Life and Natural Sciences (CALNS), while also offering mentoring, research opportunities, and professional development.

“As of fall 2025, we’ve funded 22 first-time freshmen and nine transfer scholarships,” said Dr. Elica Moss, principal investigator for AAMU’s NSF S-STEM DEFEND Scholars Program. “Our students excel in research and academics, earning internships and recognition as AAAS Scholars who have traveled to Washington, D.C.; Chicago; and this year, San Diego. The program also builds camaraderie through workshops, community service, and team-building activities.”

Representing AAMU were McKinley Dunford, a senior majoring in environmental science/soil science from Huntsville, Alabama; Elijah Nall, a junior majoring in environmental science/environmental management from Birmingham, Alabama; Kennedy Brown, a junior majoring in environmental science/environmental health from Birmingham, Alabama; Camille McGowan, a junior majoring in environmental science/environmental health from Birmingham, Alabama; and Jaden Wills, a senior majoring in food science from Atlanta.

A highlight of the conference was Brown’s poster presentation on water quality issues in low-income Birmingham neighborhoods. Her project, “Water Report Cards for Cleaner Waterways,” proposed new ways to educate communities and advocate for cleaner, safer environments.

The trip allowed scholars to strengthen their leadership skills and connect with other STEM students from across the nation, continuing AAMU’s strong presence in the NSF S-STEM community.