UMass Amherst NSBE Student Chapter Wins Award at Annual Convention
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From March 5th to March 9th, the UMass Amherst National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) student chapter attended the 50th Annual NSBE Convention, in Chicago. 48 UMass students attended—the largest group the chapter has ever sent to the national convention. Attendees participated in a variety of workshops, networking events, and the career fair.
In another historic achievement, the UMass Amherst NSBE chapter won the Region 1 Large Collegiate Chapter Award—their first time receiving a regional award.
In granting the Large Collegiate Chapter Awards, the NSBE National Executive Board assessed chapters in each of its six regions, judging them on factors including volunteer service, impact on other chapters, and unique programming features. Region 1 includes Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maine, Vermont, and Rhode Island.
The president of the UMass Amherst NSBE chapter, chemical engineering major Kayla Soraia Monterio ‘26, reflected that: “This experience reminded me what’s possible when we lead with intention. I’m incredibly proud of my chapter, my e-board, and every member who showed up, stayed committed, and trusted the vision. This year was about making space—and we did just that.”
As a further testament to the strength of the chapter, Monterio shared that 78% of the UMass Amherst NSBE convention attendees have already received internship or full-time job offers.
In addition, over the past year the UMass Amherst NSBE chapter has secured sponsorships, partnerships, and collaborations with several companies—including MathWorks, AbbVie, Pfizer, Verizon, Consigli, PepsiCo, and Hanover Insurance—who have provided support and hosted events for the chapter.
Since its inception in 1975, NSBE has become one of the largest student-governed international organizations in the United States. NSBE now has more than 24,000 active members and 800 chapters in the U.S. and abroad, all working to support its mission “to increase the number of culturally responsible Black Engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.”