The Caribbean Division of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) will celebrate its 40th anniversary and annual convention on October 24–25, marking four decades of commitment to promoting science, education, and innovation in the region.

Under the theme “Caribbean Science: Past, Present, and Future,” the convention will honor 40 years of research legacy in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, while setting forth an agenda that connects the scientific community with international networks of excellence.

According to Dr. Kevin M. Alicea Torres, president of the organization, “Over these four decades, the Division has fostered the development of new generations of scientists, promoted interdisciplinary dialogue, and encouraged the integration of science into public policy and everyday life.”

Since its founding in 1985, the AAAS Caribbean Division has maintained its conventions free and accessible, not only for the scientific community but also for the general public.

“This year, we will feature a program that unites the past, present, and future of Caribbean science, with the participation of researchers, industry professionals, educators, students, and community leaders. In addition to highlighting scientific advances, we will celebrate our culture and create an inclusive space where everyone can feel part of this great conversation about the future of science in Puerto Rico,” emphasized Alicea Torres, who is also a professor at the University of Puerto Rico at Humacao.

The 40th annual convention will cover topics such as climate change and sustainability, STEM education and innovation, biomedical research, and aerospace sciences, among others.

With the participation of AAAS leaders at both national and international levels, the convention will be held at the Centro de Bellas Artes in Humacao and will be free and open to the public.

Registration will remain open until October 20 at this link.

As part of the event, the results of the Lucy Gaspar Award for Excellence in Science Education will be announced, recognizing K–12 teachers from the Caribbean. Additionally, the Robert I. Larus Award for the best graduate student poster will be presented.