On June 26 of 2007, the UNCF/Merck Science Initiative Fellows Reunion was held at Normandy Farm, in Blue Bell, PA, where over 200 past and present UNCF/Merck Fellows were reunited. From two fellows in this shared space, an idea was born to form an organization whereby past and present UNCF/Merck Science Initiative Fellows could interact both personally and professionally. To this end, a committee of 21 fellows comprising undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctorates and professionals was assembled. The committee convened on numerous occasions in person and via teleconference.

On September 15, 2007, the framework for the Association of UNCF/Merck Fellows (AUMF), including, but not limited to, an organizational name, preamble, mission statement, objectives, milestones, and bylaws were voted into existence. Additionally, the Board of Directors was elected and an External Advisory Board was selected. We recognize the rich resource of creative genius and talent that collectively exists amongst us as a group and are very excited to participate in the ongoing development of a forum, namely, a Web Resource, where continued interaction can be facilitated on a long term basis, even in the virtual space. The Web Resource will house a personal web page for each and every fellow where research interests, publications, career paths, etc., can be posted. Pertinent documents, such as the by‐laws and organizational objectives will also be posted.

Lastly, as our organization is in the early stages of development, committees will ultimately serve as the workhorse of the Association. To date, several committees have been formed. Please get involved. Participation in these committees from the general membership will be critical to the success of our organization. As Dr. Jerry Bryant, UNCF/Merck Science Initiative Director, says "Once a Fellow, always a Fellow".

Let's work together to develop an organization that both pushes and pulls its members.

Cheers Fellows,

Erica L. McJimpsey
President, Association of UNCF/Merck Fellows (AUMF)