SACNAS is a society of scientists dedicated to advancing Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in science. Founded in 1973, they are a national nonprofit organization of individuals and organizations interested in quality science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) research, teaching, leadership, and policy.

From October 27-30, 2011 in San Jose, California, over 3,600 attendees participated in for four days of scientific research presentations, professional development, networking, exhibits, culture, and community under the theme of Empowering Innovation and Synergy Through Diversity. SACNAS student poster and oral presenters are recognized for their outstanding research presentations. Recognitions are determined based on scores provided by mentor-judges and the collective recommendations of all judges within each subdiscipline.