AAMU Signs MOU with Sandia National Labs

A lingering mandate to diversify the nation’s pipeline of talented men and women in science and engineering has led to a five-year memorandum of understanding between Alabama A&M University and Sandia National Laboratories.

Government and University officials joined forces at AAMU Wednesday, January 26, for a series of discussions, presentations and tours, culminating with the signing of the MOU and subsequent handshake by AAMU President Daniel K. Wims and Albuquerque, N.M.-based Sandia’s Steven E. Gianoulakis, senior manager of Autonomy and Unmanned Systems. 

Dr. Zhengtao Deng, interim dean, and faculty and staff of the College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences, hosted the session.  Deng says the partnership will open the door for increased research between Sandia and AAMU.  The overall goal, however, is the ultimate creation of a robust and deliberate partnership via collaboration between the national laboratories and a historically black college/university (HBCU). 

Throughout the course of the agreement, both parties should see increased percentages of underrepresented minorities enrolling in STEM majors; expanded opportunities for research partnerships and external collaborations; and additional hires of underrepresented minorities at Sandia.

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AAMU-SANDIA MOU: Pictured (l-r): Dr. Andrew Scott, professor, electrical engineering and computer science, and interim director of AAMU-RISE (contracting entity); Emily Ahr, strategy and program development, Sandia National Laboratories; Dr. Padmaja Guggilla, interim chairperson, AAMU Department of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics; Steven E. Gianoulakis, senior manager, Autonomy and Unmanned Systems, Sandia; Dr. Daniel K. Wims, president, Alabama A&M University; Dr. Ed Pearson, assistant professor, computer science/cybersecurity; Dr. Zhengtao Deng, interim dean, AAMU College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences.