Six students in Hofstra’s Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) and members of the University’s Pre-Collegiate Initiative Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE-PCI) won second place in the National Robotics Design and Presentation contest during the 2006 national conference of NSBE in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, March 29 to April 2.

The students were given the task of constructing an automated robot capable of picking up and delivering objects to and from specified locations and navigating a specified course. They participated in three categories: defending the computer-aided design (CAD) and PowerPoint presentation phase of the robot and applications; the physical navigation of the robot, based on programmed sensors; and the delivery of the objects by the robot from one point to another.

“We are very pleased with our students’ performances at the national level,” said Michael Ayewoh, assistant dean and executive director, Center for Educational Access and Success at Hofstra’s School of Education and Allied Human Services. “What was also very flattering to us was that many schools want to consult with Hofstra on how best to engage students and faculty in the creation of an NSBE-PCI chapter and how to provide opportunities for students to participate in professional development projects.”

“Students in the Science and Technology Entry Program enter postsecondary education better prepared for the rigors of higher education,” said Stanley S. Hansen, Jr., executive coordinator of the NYS Education Department Office of K-16 Initiatives and Access Programs, which oversees STEP. “I applaud these students for their individual hard work, time, effort and commitment in achieving this national honor.”