Welcome from the California State University System
Welcome GMiS Conference Participants,
On behalf of the California State University, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the 37th Annual Great Minds in STEM (GMiS) Conference being held October 2-4, 2025, in beautiful San Diego, California. This year, we are proud to serve as an academic host alongside our colleagues at the Computing Alliance of Hispanic-Serving Institutions (CAHSI) and the University of California San Diego, and we are thrilled to see a lineup of sessions, workshops and keynote speakers that will address the latest developments in STEM research and innovation, including artificial intelligence.
The CSU is steadfast in our commitment to preparing world-class STEM leaders who make meaningful, global contributions across industries and sectors. For over a century, the CSU has cultivated a strong legacy of excellence in STEM education, research and innovation – a legacy that continues to shape many of the most significant technological advancements in human history.
Equally central to our mission is our dedication to diversity and inclusion. With more than 50% of our 460,000 students identifying as underrepresented minorities – and nearly one-third being the first in their families to attend college – the CSU is the most diverse university system in the nation. Distinguished faculty and staff across our 21 Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) play a critical role in sustaining the CSU record of awarding more than half of California’s undergraduate degrees earned by Latinx, African American and Native American students in STEM fields. Our shared values with GMiS – centered on educational access, diversity and growing careers in science, technology, engineering and math – make this partnership especially meaningful.
I encourage you to fully embrace this opportunity to engage with attendees from diverse backgrounds and academic disciplines, to sharpen your analytical skills and to draw inspiration for your future achievements. My deep appreciation also goes to the faculty, staff and industry leaders who guide and mentor GMiS conference attendees in their academic and career pursuits, helping them discover their boundless talents and potential.
Thank you all for representing California’s future workforce with such distinction.
Warmly,
Mildred García
Chancellor
The California State University System
