Comment from Jonathan Kujawa

[200.300, 200.218] To Whom it May Concern: I am a professor of mathematics with over twenty years of experience in research, teaching, and mentoring. I am writing in my personal capacity to oppose the proposed revisions to sections 200.300 and 200.218 that would impede STEM recruitment and retention initiatives and restrict certain research fields vital to broadening participation in STEM. I frequently work with young mathematicians from a wide range of backgrounds, including women and people from underrepresented groups. Mathematical interest and talent are found throughout the population. If only for the sake of maximizing the quality and quantity of science in the United States, it is important that we make efforts to bring talented people into mathematics, and not limit ourselves by only considering those who happen to come from the correct circumstances. In my NSF grants I have always included funds to support undergraduate and graduate researchers. Loss of those funds would have materially impacted their ability to be involved in research, to participate in conferences, and to interact with mathematicians from other institutions. These activities are an important part of nurturing the next generation of mathematician. Indeed, several of those who have worked with me have gone on to graduate school and on to careers in research and teaching in either academia or industry. If that portion of the funding had been canceled, the chances are high that many of those people would not have had the same trajectory. Contrary to what you see in the movies, mathematical interest and talent need to be supported to flourish. Depending on luck and circumstance to identify and mentor the next generation of researchers, educators, and innovators in mathematics is short-sighted and inefficient. Small investments to support individuals will reap large benefits in American innovation, workforce, and scientific development.