Background According to the recent study by the National Academies of Sciences (2010), “Expanding Underrepresented Minority Participation: America's Science and Technology Talent at the Crossroads”, the underrepresented minority participation in science and engineering is only a third of the general minority population suggesting that the proportion of underrepresented minorities would need to triple in order to match the their share of the domestic population. It appears that the US is increasingly relying on non-US scientists to fill its talent needs. The dramatic demographic changes indicate that this disproportionate representation is likely to increase unless serious efforts are undertaken to counteract the trajectory. The issues surrounding minority participation are multifaceted and complex. Studies have found that successful interventions depend on 1) sustained resources to stimulate interest and encourage persistence, 2) exposure to experiences that reinforce competence and identification with the sciences, 3) opportunities for networking among minority populations, 4) mentoring, especially at critical decision points, and 5) institutional leadership and investment. Goals The symposium will generate awareness of the issues, challenges and opportunities to engage underrepresented minorities and launch an ongoing knowledge sharing of effective interventions. Objectives 1) Synthesize factors that influence minority participation in the sciences and research careers 2) Articulate the best ideas and strategies to expand recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority students in the ecological sciences; 3) Build a network of ESA members who can work with institutional leaders to implement effective interventions. An open discussion will follow the final presentation. Objectives 1) Synthesize research findings that influence minority participation in the sciences and research careers 2) Articulate the best ideas and strategies to expand recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority students in the ecological sciences; 3) Build a network of ESA members who can work with institutional leaders to implement effective interventions. The panel discussion will include two minority students (TBD) who will provide an on-the-ground perspective of the issues discussed.