To the Editor:

I was pleased to see your coverage of the Congressional briefing, co-hosted by the Mathematical Association of America, on recruitment and retention of minority students ("Minority Students Needed in Math and Science to Combat 'Brain Drain,' Professors Say," The Chronicle, September 22). As the third panelist who was mentioned, but not identified, in the article, I was gratified by the positive response to our message. If we are to have enough students graduating from college with the scientific and technical expertise needed for the work-force demands of this century, we cannot afford to overlook minority students who have been traditionally underrepresented in scientific and technical fields. It will take more than opening doors; students need support and encouragement to take advantage of opportunities.

This briefing focused on the success stories. We know what works: active recruitment, mentoring, community building, research opportunities, encouragement through transition points, and programs that introduce students to interdisciplinary options. We should provide these for all of our students, but they are particularly important for students at high risk. Rep. Ruben Hinojosa, the briefing co-host, called for university, corporate, and government collaboration on solutions. This will require large-scale efforts.

David M. Bressoud
President
Mathematical Association of America
Professor of Mathematics
Macalester College
St. Paul