Assistant Professor of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry Teresita Padilla-Benavides founded a University chapter of the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) in July 2020 to provide a space for underrepresented groups involved in STEM. SACNAS is a nationwide organization that has been around for several decades, with chapters providing mentorship and volunteer opportunities for undergraduate students and professionals.
SACNAS started as an initiative to help primarily first-generation Mexican students, but has since expanded to include the larger Latinx and indigenous communities. All students have an equal opportunity to join the club, receive scholarships, and get support from the board.