Richard Tapia encourages underrepresented minorities in science

Richard Tapia, winner of the National Science Board's 2014 Vannevar Bush Award, talks about his efforts to encourage underrepresented minorities in science. Tapia is a mathematician and professor at Rice University, and director of the school's Center for Excellence and Equity in Education. His official title at Rice is university professor -- a designation granted to only six people in the school's history. The recipient of numerous honors -- and the owner of an award-winning 1970 Chevelle -- Tapia is a national leader in mentoring minorities in STEM. The Vannevar Bush Award is given to exceptional, lifelong leaders in science and technology who have made substantial contributions to our nation's welfare.