President Barack Obama honored educators from across the country at his second “Educate to Innovate” Campaign event for excellence in STEM education.
Ben Flores, Ph.D., professor of electrical and computer engineering at The University of Texas at El Paso, received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (STEM) during a reception at the White House Wednesday morning.
The event was streamed live on the web from Washington D.C.
Flores was among 22 mentors and more than 80 educators nationwide being recognized for their efforts to mentor minorities who are studying science and engineering.
Flores was selected for the time, encouragement and expertise he has offered to thousands of students throughout the U.T. system since joining the UTEP staff in 1990.
He leads several University and statewide programs that promote increasing minorities in the workplace with the hope that the next generation of scientists and engineers will better reflect the nation’s diversity.
“These awards represent a heartfelt salute of appreciation to a remarkable group of individuals who have devoted their lives and careers to helping others and in doing so have helped us all," Obama said.
The selection, which is made through the National Science Foundation, includes $10,000 the winners can use to pursue their mentoring efforts.
Flores plans to use his money to develop a program where undergraduate math, science and engineering majors will help teachers in the Canutillo Independent School District create projects to motivate students to go to college and consider scientific careers.
“This is a great honor for me,” Flores said, adding how grateful he was that UTEP President Diana Natalicio nominated him. “I was very happy that … my work is now being recognized at the highest level.”
The professor said mentoring engineers is crucial to help students hone their academic and professional skills and prepare them for the workforce. He lauded UTEP for the considerable investment it has made to create a social and academic support system for Hispanic science and engineering students.
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