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Media Advisory: USM Hosting 2019 SeaPerch Regional Challenge in Biloxi

TO: News editors, directors

WHAT: 2019 USM SeaPerch Challenge

WHEN: Saturday, March 16. 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

WHERE: Biloxi Natatorium - 1384 Father Ryan Ave, Biloxi, MS 39530

SPECIFICS:  USM's School of Ocean Science and Engineering (SOSE) is hosting the 2019 SeaPerch Regional Challenge at the Biloxi Natatorium. SeaPerch is an innovative underwater robotics program that equips teachers and students with the resources they need to build an underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) in an in-school or out-of-school setting.  This year, 12 teams from Mississippi and Louisiana will compete in an obstacle course, an underwater challenge and a presentation on their ROV design. Students build the ROV from a kit comprised of low-cost, easily accessible parts, following a curriculum that teaches basic engineering and science concepts with a marine engineering theme. The SeaPerch Program provides students with the opportunity to learn about robotics, engineering, science, and mathematics (STEM) while building an underwater ROV as part of a science and engineering technology curriculum. The 2019 USM SeaPerch challenge acts as a regional qualifier with the winning teams having a chance to compete in the national SeaPerch challenge.

CONTACT: James Skrmetta, SOSE Communications Officer, 228.872.4254, James.SkrmettaFREEMississippi.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a comprehensive public research institution delivering transformative programs on campuses in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites in central and southern Mississippi, as well as online. Founded in 1910, USM is one of only 130 universities in the nation to earn the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education's "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity” designation, and its robust research enterprise includes experts in ocean science and engineering, polymer science and engineering, and sport venue safety and security, among others. USM is also one of only 40 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, art and design, dance and music. As an economic driver, USM generates an annual economic impact of more than $600 million across the state. USM welcomes a diverse student body of approximately 15,000, representing 71 countries, all 50 states, and every county in Mississippi. USM students have collected four Truman Scholarships and 35 National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, while also leading Mississippi with 21 Goldwater Scholarships, an honor that recognizes the next generation of great research scientists. Home to the Golden Eagles, USM competes in 17 Division I sports sponsored by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). For more information, visit usm.edu.