SAN JOSE, Calif., July 28, 2009 - The International Science and Engineering Fair 2010 Association, Inc, which is dedicated to the advancement of science and engineering education among future leaders, today announced that Cisco will serve as the Communications Technology Sponsor of the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) when it returns to San Jose in 2010. As part of the sponsorship, Cisco will illustrate how technology-enabled communication can play a key role in preparing students for successful science, math and technology careers.
The annual Intel ISEF—the world's largest high school-level science fair—is expected to attract more than 1,500 students from more than 55 countries to San Jose in May 2010. The event will bring together tomorrow's technologists with a focus on mentoring global innovation in the premiere global competition of science fairs. In addition, the event will serve as a catalyst to extend the Intel ISEF's reach beyond grades 9-12 and establish a permanent Silicon Valley K-12 legacy program for math, science and technology education.
"Cisco has a strong history of supporting education through initiatives such as the 21st Century Schools program in the Gulf Coast and the Cisco Networking Academy," said Sandra Wheatley, director, global community relations, Cisco. "The International Science and Education Fair Association is a powerful instrument for revolutionizing education and ultimately, business. We're pleased to collaborate with the ISEF to make technology and science education accessible and relevant for students to prepare them for success in the global economy."
"As the worldwide networking leader, Cisco is one of many Silicon Valley powerhouses that continue to inspire technology ingenuity," explained Dana Ditmore, President of ISEF 2010. "By teaming with companies like Cisco, we can cultivate and encourage interest in both science and technology at an early age—to help create the future architect's of our techno-centric world. As a highly diverse event, the Intel ISEF reaches out not only globally, but also to under-represented minorities in science and technology, thus further expanding the talent pool of future innovators."
Held every May since 1950, the Intel ISEF is organized by Society for Science & the Public (SSP), a non-profit organization committed to the public understanding and appreciation of science. The Intel ISEF 2010 will be the 61st fair to be held, and will take place May 9-15, 2010 at the San Jose Convention Center, San Jose, Calif. Further details on the ISEF can be found at: www.societyforscience.org.