The University of Guam (UOG) continued to make its presence felt on Day 2 of the 2026 Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) Annual Conference, as students, researchers, and university representatives showcased the island’s growing contributions to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

The second day of the conference provided opportunities for UOG students to share their research with a national audience, while university representatives highlighted innovative projects, educational opportunities, and the institution’s commitment to developing the next generation of scientists and researchers.

One of the day’s highlights took place in the conference’s poster presentation hall, where UOG students presented their research alongside undergraduate and graduate researchers from institutions across the country.

The presentations gave students an opportunity to discuss their findings, explain their research methods, and engage with scientists, faculty members, and fellow students from diverse academic backgrounds.

For the UOG delegation, the experience represented more than an opportunity to present research. It provided valuable exposure to the broader scientific community, helping students build confidence in communicating their work, receive feedback, and establish professional connections that could support their future academic and career pursuits.

Their participation also helped bring greater visibility to the scientific research being conducted on Guam and the unique perspectives that island communities contribute to national STEM conversations.

“With my research I was under the NSF INCLUDES (SEAS Islands Alliance) branch, and my research was focusing on monitoring insects and their response to the natural disaster events that we had on Guam pertaining to the two super typhoons we were recently affected by,” explained student researcher Segundo Garrido.  Segundo worked closely on his research and hopes to continue his work to make a bigger impact for our island and community.

Innovation was also on display as the Guam Green Growth (G3) Makerspace showcased creations developed through its programs.

The exhibit highlighted the creativity and hands-on learning opportunities available through the Makerspace, demonstrating how technology, design, and practical problem-solving can support innovation and sustainability.

The showcase provided conference attendees with a glimpse into Guam’s growing maker community and the ways the G3 Makerspace is helping turn creative ideas into tangible products and projects.

Facilitated through the UOG Center for Island Sustainability & Sea Grant, the Guam Green Growth initiative continues to support innovation, workforce development, and sustainable economic opportunities for island residents.

Meanwhile, members of UOG’s capacity-building team connected with conference participants to promote undergraduate and graduate educational opportunities at the University of Guam.

Through conversations with prospective students and researchers, the team highlighted UOG’s academic programs, research experiences, and opportunities for students interested in pursuing STEM education in the Pacific.

Their outreach emphasized the university’s unique position as a regional institution where students can engage in meaningful research while addressing challenges affecting island communities.

Beyond presenting and exhibiting, members of the UOG delegation also contributed to the conference by serving as mentor judges for student research presentations.

In these roles, delegation members helped evaluate student research, offered constructive feedback, and shared their professional knowledge and experiences with emerging scientists.

“Working with students from all around the country reaffirms UOG’s commitment not only to developing our own students but also to supporting the broader scientific community through mentorship and professional engagement,” said Kyle Mandapat, associate director for communications and community engagement at UOG CIS & Sea Grant. “I am learning so much and doing my best to share what I know with these amazing and talented student researchers.”

By serving as mentors and judges, UOG representatives helped encourage young researchers while contributing to the collaborative and inclusive environment that defines the SACNAS conference.

From student research presentations and innovative Makerspace creations to recruitment efforts and mentorship, Day 2 of SACNAS 2026 highlighted the many ways the University of Guam is helping strengthen STEM education and research opportunities.

See a video here: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DfImzqJS4ar/