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National Society of Black Physicists Relocates to Optica Headquarters

23 February 2023

National Society of Black Physicists Relocates to Optica Headquarters

Long-standing ties grow stronger as the organizations share a location and focus on increasing academic and professional opportunities for Black students and early career professionals on a global scale

WASHINGTON – Founded 46 years ago on the campus of Morgan State University, the National Society of Black Physicists (NSBP) is the largest organization dedicated to increasing opportunities for Black scientists in physics and the number of Black physicists globally. Since its inception, NSBP has provided conferences, professional development workshops, scholarships, and mental health and wellness programs for its members and student chapters. In February, NSBP moved its headquarters office from Arlington, VA, to the Optica headquarters building in Washington, DC.

“The current collaboration between Optica and the National Society of Black Physicists is the latest element in our long and rich history of cooperation. The NSBP is experiencing strong positive growth and an expansion of its staff. We greatly appreciate the commitment Optica’s Board of Directors has demonstrated in supporting our organization and its mission,” said Hakeem Oluseyi, President, National Society of Black Physicists.

As the leading non-profit dedicated to the Black physics community, the NSBP has partnered with the government, community groups, and corporations to encourage and support Black students to study and launch careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Collaborations with Optica, the National Science Foundation, and  The Harlem Gallery of Science have produced a wide array of programs, including  Physicists Inspiring the Next Generation. Optica’s dedication to inclusion and diversity aligns perfectly with NSBP. Both associations look forward to the NSBP’s inaugural Student Leadership Development Summit, which will take place in the headquarters building in March.

Elizabeth Rogan, CEO, Optica added, “Our organization understands that innovation and discovery are better fostered in a more diverse, inclusive global scientific community, and inclusivity is an Optica core value. The opportunity to broaden and deepen our association with NSBP enables both societies to share resources and accomplish our shared objectives to an even greater extent.”

National Society of Black Physicists

The National Society of Black Physicists (NSBP) promotes the professional well-being of African American physicists and physics students within the international scientific community and within society at large. The organization seeks to develop and support efforts to increase opportunities for African Americans in physics and to increase their numbers and visibility of their scientific work. Connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

About Optica

Optica, Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide, is the society dedicated to promoting the generation, application, archiving and dissemination of knowledge in the field. Founded in 1916, it is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students and others interested in the science of light. Optica's renowned publications, meetings, online resources and in-person activities fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate scientific, technical and educational achievement. Discover more at: Optica.org

Media Contact

mediarelations@optica.org

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