What is LSAMP?

The Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) is a National Science Foundation funded program whose purpose is to strengthen the preparation, representation and success of historically underrepresented* students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors. 

Through this program, strategic partnerships- referred to as “Alliances”- are created between local colleges, universities, and other educational institutions to provide academic preparation and career coaching to these dedicated students.

“Alliances” exist across the country, connecting LSAMP students to support systems, research and funding opportunities, and a community of like-minded peers and mentors.  At North Seattle College, we are part of an alliance with Green River College and Pierce College called the LSAMP Puget Sound Alliance.

About LSAMP

The Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) is a National Science Foundation funded program whose overall goal is to assist college’s in diversifying the nation’s science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) workforce by increasing the number of STEM baccalaureate and graduate degrees awarded to populations historically underrepresented in these disciplines: African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and Native Pacific Islanders.

These alliances bring together colleges and universities to provide support, opportunities and communities for these students. Pierce College joins North Seattle College and Green River College to form the LSAMP Puget Sound Alliance.

Students participate in undergraduate research centered on building self-confidence along with their racial and STEM identities, with projects connected to the broader world in which they live. You will explore careers, receive mentorship from faculty and industry professionals and connect with a diverse network of your peers. Through our alliance, we can encourage and support you as you prepare for a successful career in STEM!

Who was Louis Stokes?

Louis Stokes (February 23, 1925 – August 18, 2015) was a civil rights attorney who served 30 years as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for the state of Ohio.  Mr. Stokes was the first African American congressman elected in Ohio as well as the first African American to serve on the House Appropriations committee (which oversees ALL federal spending bills).  Learn more about his incredible career and legacy on the History, Art & Archives website for the House of Representatives.

Louis Stokes spent his life serving and defending those in need.  This National Science Foundation program is named in his honor.

What students say

Hear from program participants!

The LSAMP Puget Sound Alliance

The LSAMP Puget Sound Alliance (PSAlliance) is a partnership between North Seattle College, Green River College, and Pierce College.  We are committed to implementing and enhancing programs that encourage and support our LSAMP students to successfully complete their Associate of Science degree and transfer into a STEM baccalaureate program.

Each partner institution participates in Alliance-wide activities and offers project activities at its own campus. 

*Underrepresented students include those who identify as Black/African American, Latinx/Hispanic American, American Indian, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian, Native Pacific Islanders and Filipino. Representation in STEM fields for these groups is much lower than it should be based on the ethnic composition of our general population. Please review the NSF website for more information.