Carl McNair (pictured below), founder of the Dr. Ronald E. McNair Foundation Inc., will speak at UA April 29.

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The University of Alabama will host the McNair Scholars Reception on Thursday, April 29, at 5:30 p.m. in the Grand Gallery of Smith Hall. Carl McNair, brother of Ronald E. McNair, will speak at 6 p.m. on “Quitting is not an Option.” He will also discuss the recent dedication of the Ronald E. McNair Memorial in Lake City, S.C.

Carl McNair is the founder of the Dr. Ronald E. McNair Foundation Inc., named in honor of his brother who died along with six other astronauts aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986. The Foundation is dedicated to developing and implementing educational programs that motivate and encourage students to pursue careers in science, mathematics and technology.

The McNair Foundation also lobbied Congress and the U.S. Department of Education in the implementation of the prestigious Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, also known as the McNair Scholars Program. Today, 179 McNair Programs exist at colleges and universities nationally, including one at UA. The program provides mentoring and other educational opportunities for students from underrepresented groups to prepare them for graduate studies.

Following McNair's presentation, the 2003 UA McNair Scholars will be presented copies of the UA McNair Scholars Journal which includes reports on their research projects completed during summer internships. Graduating scholars will also receive McNair Honor Cords to wear at graduation. The incoming class of 2004 McNair Scholars and their faculty mentors will be presented.

The UA community is invited to attend the event.