A JOINT MEMORIAL

DESIGNATING FEBRUARY 17, 2005 AS "NEW MEXICO MESA DAY" AT THE LEGISLATURE.

     WHEREAS, New Mexico MESA, incorporated, a nonprofit organization, is part of a national initiative promoting educational enrichment for pre-college students from historically underrepresented ethnic groups; and

     WHEREAS, currently in one hundred one schools statewide, the New Mexico MESA program has grown dramatically since its introduction in 1982 in seven schools, providing thousands of middle, junior and high school students with year-round support and career guidance; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico MESA activities include tutoring; independent study; academic, university and career counseling; field trips and competitions; leadership workshops; summer enrichment, employment and mentorship programs; and scholarship incentives; and

     WHEREAS, New Mexico MESA provides support not only to students but to their teachers, families and communities; and

     WHEREAS, through New Mexico MESA's efforts, participating students receive the educational enrichment experiences and practical help they need to achieve academic excellence and prepare for college majors in mathematics, engineering and the sciences;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that February 17, 2005 be designated as "New Mexico MESA Day" at the legislature; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the legislature recognize and applaud the New Mexico MESA organization for its dedication to preparing minority students for careers in mathematics, engineering and the sciences; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to New Mexico MESA, incorporated.