Notice of Intent To Seek Approval To Renew an Information Collection, 32724-32727 [2017-14922]
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32724
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 135 / Monday, July 17, 2017 / Notices
respondents that submit monthly for a
total of 121,272 responses with an
estimated response time of 9 minutes
per response.
(6) An estimate of the total public
burden (in hours) associated with the
collection: There are an estimated
18,191 hours, annual burden, associated
with this information collection.
If additional information is required
contact: Melody Braswell, Department
Clearance Officer, United States
Department of Justice, Justice
Management Division, Policy and
Planning Staff, Two Constitution
Square, 145 N Street NE., Suite 3E.405B,
Washington, DC 20530.
Dated: July 12, 2017.
Melody Braswell,
Department Clearance Officer, PRA, U.S.
Department of Justice.
[FR Doc. 2017–14905 Filed 7–14–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4410–02–P
Notice of Intent To Seek Approval To
Renew an Information Collection
National Science Foundation.
Notice and request for
comments.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
The National Science
Foundation (NSF) is announcing plans
to request renewal of this collection. In
accordance with the requirement of the
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, we
are providing an opportunity for public
comment on this action. After obtaining
and considering public comment, NSF
will prepare the submission requesting
that OMB approve clearance of this
collection for no longer than 3 years.
Comments: Comments are invited on
(a) whether the proposed collection of
information is necessary for the proper
performance of the functions of the
Agency, including whether the
information shall have practical utility;
(b) the accuracy of the Agency’s
estimate of the burden of the proposed
collection of information; (c) ways to
enhance the quality, utility, and clarity
of the information on respondents,
including through the use of automated
collection techniques or other forms of
information technology; (d) ways to
minimize the burden of the collection of
information on those who are to
respond, including through the use of
appropriate automated, electronic,
mechanical, or other technological
collection techniques or other forms of
information technology.
DATES: Written comments on this notice
must be received by September 15, 2017
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Written comments
regarding the information collection and
requests for copies of the proposed
information collection request should be
addressed to Suzanne Plimpton, Reports
Clearance Officer, National Science
Foundation, 4201 Wilson Blvd., Suite
1265, Arlington, VA 22230, or by email
to splimpto@nsf.gov.
ADDRESSES:
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Contact Suzanne H. Plimpton, Reports
Clearance Officer, National Science
Foundation, 4201 Wilson Blvd., Suite
1265; telephone 703–292–7556; or send
email to splimpto@nsf.gov. Individuals
who use a telecommunications device
for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal
Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 1–
800–877–8339, which is accessible 24
hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a
year (including Federal holidays).
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
SUMMARY:
to be assured of consideration.
Comments received after that date will
be considered to the extent practicable.
Title of Collection: National Science
Foundation-Managed Awards.
OMB Approval Number: 3145–0035.
Expiration Date of Approval:
November 30, 2017.
Type of Request: Intent to seek
approval to renew an information
collection for three years.
Abstract: The National Science
Foundation (NSF) administers several
external awards, among them the
President’s National Medal of Science,
the Alan T. Waterman Award, the
National Science Board (NSB) Vannevar
Bush Award, the NSB Public Service
Award, the Presidential Awards for
Excellence in Science, Mathematics and
Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM)
program, and the Presidential Awards
for Excellence in Mathematics and
Science Teaching (PAEMST) program.
In 2003, to comply with E-government
requirements, the nomination processes
were converted to electronic submission
through the National Science
Foundation’s (NSF) FastLane system or
via other electronic systems as
described in the individual nomination
process. Individuals can now prepare
nominations and references through
www.fastlane.nsf.gov/honawards/. Firsttime users must register on the Fastlane
Web site using the link found in the
upper right-hand corner above the ‘‘Log
In’’ box before accessing any of the
honorary award categories. The
nominations for PAESMEM also may be
submitted via www.grants.gov.
Nominations and applications are
submitted on the PAEMST portal at
www.PAEMST.org.
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Use of the Information: The
Foundation has the following honorary
award programs:
• President’s National Medal of
Science. Statutory authority for the
President’s National Medal of Science is
contained in 42 U.S.C. 1881 (Public Law
86–209), which established the award
and stated that ‘‘(t)he President shall
. . . award the Medal on the
recommendations received from the
National Academy of Sciences or on the
basis of such other information and
evidence as . . . appropriate.’’
Subsequently, Executive Order 10961
specified procedures for the Award by
establishing a National Medal of Science
Committee which would ‘‘receive
recommendations made by any other
nationally representative scientific or
engineering organization.’’ On the basis
of these recommendations, the
Committee was directed to select its
candidates and to forward its
recommendations to the President.
In 1962, to comply with these
directives, the Committee initiated a
solicitation form letter to invite these
nominations. In 1979, the Committee
initiated a nomination form as an
attachment to the solicitation letter. A
slightly modified version of the
nomination form was used in 1980.
The Committee has established the
following considerations for selection of
candidates:
a. The impact of an individual’s body
of work on the current state of his or her
field of science or engineering;
b. Whether the individual’s
achievements are of an unusually
significant nature in relation to the
potential effects on the development of
thought in his or her field of science or
engineering;
c. Whether the nominee has
demonstrated unusually distinguished
service in the general advancement of
science and/or engineering for the
Nation, especially when accompanied
by substantial contributions to the
content of science;
d. The recognition of the nominee by
peers within his or her community, and
whether s/he is recognized for
substantial impact in fields in addition
to his/her discipline;
e. If the nominee has made
contributions to innovation and
industry;
f. Whether the nominee has
demonstrated sustained influence on
education through publications,
teaching activities, outreach, mentoring,
etc.; and
g. Whether the nominee’s
contributions have created significant
positive impact for the Nation.
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 135 / Monday, July 17, 2017 / Notices
In 2003, the Committee changed the
active period of eligibility to three years,
including the year of nomination. After
that time, candidates must be
renominated with a new nomination
package for them to be considered by
the Committee.
Narratives are now restricted to three
pages of text, as stipulated in the
guidelines at: https://
www.fastlane.nsf.gov/honawards/
medalHome.do.
• Alan T. Waterman Award. Congress
established the Alan T. Waterman
Award in August 1975 (42 U.S.C. 1881a
(Public Law 94–86) and authorized NSF
to ‘‘establish the Alan T. Waterman
Award for research or advanced study
in any of the sciences or engineering’’ to
mark the 25th anniversary of the
National Science Foundation and to
honor its first Director. The annual
award recognizes an outstanding young
researcher in any field of science or
engineering supported by NSF. In
addition to a medal, the awardee
receives a grant of $1,000,000 over a
five-year period for scientific research or
advanced study in the mathematical,
physical, medical, biological,
engineering, social, or other sciences at
the institution of the recipient’s choice.
The Alan T. Waterman Award
Committee was established by NSF to
comply with the directive contained in
Public Law 94–86. The Committee
solicits nominations from members of
the National Academy of Sciences,
National Academy of Engineering,
scientific and technical organizations,
and any other source, public or private,
as appropriate.
In 1976, the Committee initiated a
form letter to solicit these nominations.
In 1980, a nomination form was used
which standardized the nomination
procedures, allowed for more effective
Committee review, and permitted better
staff work in a short period of time. On
the basis of its review, the Committee
forwards its recommendation to the
Director, NSF, and the National Science
Board (NSB).
Candidates must be U.S. citizens or
permanent residents and must be 35
years of age or younger or not more than
seven years beyond receipt of the Ph.D.
degree by December 31 of the year in
which they are nominated. Candidates
should have demonstrated exceptional
individual achievements in scientific or
engineering research of sufficient
quality to place them at the forefront of
their peers. Criteria include originality,
innovation, and significant impact on
the field.
• Vannevar Bush Award. The
Vannevar Bush Award honors truly
exceptional lifelong leaders in science
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and technology who have made
substantial contributions to the welfare
of the Nation through public service
activities in science, technology, and
public policy. The National Science
Board established this award in 1980 in
the memory of Vannevar Bush, who
served as a science advisor to President
Franklin Roosevelt during World War II,
helped to establish Federal funding for
science and engineering as a national
priority during peacetime, and was
behind the creation of the National
Science Foundation.
The Vannevar Bush Award recipient
is selected annually by the National
Science Board’s Subcommittee on
Honorary Awards (AWD), which is
established to solicit nominations from
scientific, engineering, and educational
societies and institutions, in both the
public and private sectors.
Candidates for the Vannevar Bush
Award should have demonstrated
outstanding leadership and
accomplishment in meeting at least two
of the following selection criteria:
1. Candidates must be U.S. citizens.
2. Distinguished himself/herself
through public service activities in
science and technology.
3. Pioneered the exploration, charting,
and settlement of new frontiers in
science, technology, education, and
public service.
4. Demonstrated leadership and
creativity that have inspired others to
distinguished careers in science and
technology.
5. Contributed to the welfare of the
Nation and mankind through activities
in science and technology.
6. Demonstrated leadership and
creativity that has helped mold the
history of advancements in the Nation’s
science, technology, and education.
Nomination Submissions must
include:
1. A current curriculum vita without
publications (no more than 5 pages).
2. A narrative statement (no more
than 8 pages) addressing the candidate’s
activities and contributions related to
the selection criteria.
3. A proposed award citation
addressing the candidate’s activities in
and contributions to national public
service activities in science, technology,
and public policy.
4. Contact information for award
candidate and nominator (mailing
address, email address, and phone
number).
5. Two reference letters (no more than
2 pages each) from individuals familiar
with the candidate’s accomplishments,
and not affiliated with the candidate’s
home institution. Letters should be
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submitted by email to nsbawards@
nsf.gov on letterhead as a PDF file.
Nominations remain active for three
years, including the year of nomination.
After that time, candidates must be
renominated with a new nomination for
them to be considered by the selection
committee.
Awards Ceremony
The award recipient is presented with
a medal and honored at the NSF Annual
Awards Ceremony and Dinner in
Washington, DC.
• NSB Public Service Award. The
National Science Board established the
Public Service Award in November
1996 to honor individuals and groups
that have made substantial
contributions to increasing public
understanding of science and
engineering in the United States. These
contributions may be in a wide variety
of areas that have the potential of
contributing to public understanding of
and appreciation for science and
engineering—including mass media,
education and/or training programs, and
entertainment.
Eligibility includes any individual or
group (company, corporation or
organization) that has increased the
public understanding of science or
engineering.
Candidates for the NSB Public Service
Award should have demonstrated
outstanding leadership and
accomplishment in meeting the
following selection criteria:
1. Increased the public’s understanding of
the processes of science and engineering
through scientific discovery, innovation, and
its communication to the public.
2. Encouraged others to help raise the
public understanding of science and
technology.
3. Promoted the engagement of scientists
and engineers in public outreach and
scientific literacy.
4. Contributed to the development of broad
science and engineering policy and its
support.
5. Influenced and encouraged the next
generation of scientists and engineers.
6. Achieved broad recognition outside of
the candidate’s area of specialization.
7. Fostered awareness of science and
technology among broad segments of the
population.
Note: Members of the U.S.
Government are not eligible for this
award.
Nomination Procedures
Nominations for an individual must
include:
1. A current curriculum vita without
publications (no more than 3 pages).
2. A narrative statement (no more
than 5 pages) addressing the following:
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a. the candidate’s public service
activities in science and engineering,
and
b. the candidate’s contributions to
public understanding of science and
engineering, as they relate to the
selection criteria.
3. Contact information of candidate
and nominator (mailing address, email
address, phone number).
Nominations must be submitted by
email to: nsbawards@nsf.gov.
Nominations for a group must
include:
1. A narrative statement (no more
than 5 pages) addressing the following:
a. the group’s activities, and how it
accomplishes the selection criteria for
the award,
b. length of years of the program,
c. number and type of individuals
served by the group’s activities; and
d. data on the success of the program
(if available).
2. Contact information of candidate
and nominator (mailing address, email
address, phone number).
3. Reference letters are optional, and
up to 3 letters (no more than to 2 pages
each) may be submitted on letterhead as
a PDF file.
Nominations must be submitted by
email to: nsbawards@nsf.gov.
Nominations remain active for three
years, including the year of nomination.
After that time, candidates must be renominated with a new nomination for
them to be considered by the selection
committee.
Awards Ceremony
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Award recipients are presented with a
medal and honored at the NSF Annual
Awards Ceremony and Dinner in
Washington, DC.
• Presidential Awards for Excellence in
Science, Mathematics and
Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM)
program
In 1996, the White House, through the
National Science and Technology
Council (NSTC) and the Office of
Science and Technology Policy (OSTP),
established the Presidential Awards for
Excellence in Science, Mathematics and
Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM)
program. The program, administered on
behalf of the White House by the
National Science Foundation, seeks to
identify outstanding mentoring efforts
or programs designed to enhance the
participation of groups (women,
minorities and persons with disabilities
as well as groups from low
socioeconomic regions)
underrepresented in science,
mathematics and engineering. The
awardees will serve as exemplars to
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their colleagues and will be leaders in
the national effort to more fully develop
the Nation’s human resources in
science, mathematics and engineering.
This award is managed at NSF by the
Directorate for Education and Human
Resources (EHR).
The award will be made to U.S.
citizens or U.S. permanent residents
based on the following: (1) An
individual who has demonstrated
outstanding and sustained mentoring
and effective guidance to a significant
number of early career STEM
professionals, students at the K–12,
undergraduate, or graduate education
level or (2) to an organization that,
through its programming, has enabled a
substantial number of students
underrepresented in science,
mathematics and engineering to
successfully pursue and complete the
relevant degree programs as well as
mentoring of early career STEM
professionals. Nominees must have
served in a mentoring role for at least
five years. Nominations are reviewed for
impact, significance of the mentoring
activity and quality of the mentoring
activity. Nominations for organizational
awards must demonstrate rigorous
evaluation and/or assessment during the
five-year period of the mentoring
activity.
Nomination Criteria
Award Ceremony
• Applicants complete a 12-page
written document on five dimensions of
outstanding teaching (content
knowledge, pedagogy, assessment,
leadership and professional
development) and submit a video of one
class. Three letters of reference
including one from a school official are
required, along with a resume or
biographical sketch.
• The applicant has a 7-month period
(October to May) to complete
applications and submit them for state
review. The nomination period is from
October to April.
The awardees are hosted for two days
in Washington, DC, for celebratory
activities. Recipients of the PAESMEM
award receive a monetary award in the
amount of $10,000 from NSF and a
commemorative Presidential certificate.
If scheduling permits, the President
meets with the mentors for a photo
opportunity at the White House. The
Director of OSTP and the Director of
NSF present the awards to the mentors
at an awards ceremony.
• Presidential Award for Excellence in
Mathematics and Science Teaching
The Presidential Award for
Excellence in Mathematics and Science
Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest
recognition that a kindergarten through
12th-grade mathematics or science
teacher may receive for outstanding
teaching in the United States. Enacted
by Congress in 1983, this program
authorizes the President to bestow 108
awards, assuming there are qualified
applicants. In even-numbered years,
nominations are accepted for
elementary teachers (grades K–6); in
odd-numbered years, secondary
teachers (grades 7–12) are nominated.
This award is managed at NSF by the
Directorate for Education and Human
Resources (EHR).
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A teacher may be nominated by a
principal, another teacher, students,
members of the community, or the
general public. Self-nominations are
allowed. Awardees must be either U.S.
Citizens or U.S. Permanent Residents. A
Nominee must meet the following
criteria to apply:
• Be highly qualified as deemed by
their states, districts, or schools;
• Teach in one of the 50 States, the
District of Columbia, the
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the
four U.S. territories, including the
Department of Defense Schools
(DoDEA).
• Hold a degree or appropriate
credentials in the category for which
they are applying.
• Be a full-time employee of the
school or school district.
• Have at least 5 years of mathematics
or science teaching (including computer
science) experience prior to application.
• Teach mathematics or science at the
kindergarten through 6th grade level or
at the 7th through 12th grade level in a
public or private school.
• Not have received the national
PAEMST award in any prior
competition or category.
Application Process
Review of Nominations
• State coordinators convene state
selection committees of prominent
mathematicians, scientists, mathematics
and science educators, and past
awardees to select up to five
mathematics and five science finalists
for recognition at the state level and for
submission to NSF. To ensure
consistency, state selection committees
review their applications using the same
criteria and scoring information that
was approved by OSTP.
• NSF (EHR) convenes a National
Selection Committee of prominent
mathematicians, scientists, mathematics
and science educators, and past
awardees that review the application
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 135 / Monday, July 17, 2017 / Notices
packets of the state finalists and make
recommendations to NSF. NSF reviews
these recommendations and
recommends one awardee in both
mathematics and science for all eligible
jurisdictions, when possible, to OSTP.
Alternatively, NSF may recommend two
awardees from a discipline in a
jurisdiction, when warranted.
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Award Ceremony
17:45 Jul 14, 2017
[FR Doc. 2017–14922 Filed 7–14–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7555–01–P
POSTAL REGULATORY COMMISSION
[Docket Nos. MC2017–157 and CP2017–221]
The awardees are hosted for 3–4 days
in Washington, DC, for a variety of
professional development sessions and
celebratory activities. Each awardee
receives a citation signed by the
President and $10,000 from NSF. If
scheduling permits, the President meets
the teachers for a photo opportunity at
the White House. The Director of OSTP
and the Director of NSF present the
citations to the teachers at an awards
ceremony. Awardees also have the
opportunity to meet their congressional
representatives and education
representatives from other federal
agencies.
Estimate of Burden: These are annual
award programs with application
deadlines varying according to the
program. Public burden also may vary
according to program; however, across
all the programs, it is estimated that
each submission will average 19 hours
per respondent. If the nominator is
thoroughly familiar with the
disciplinary background of the nominee,
time spent to complete the nomination
may be considerably reduced.
Respondents: Individuals, businesses
or other for-profit organizations,
universities, non-profit institutions, and
Federal and State governments.
Estimated Number of Responses per
Award: 1782 responses, broken down as
follows: For the President’s National
Medal of Science, 80; for the Alan T.
Waterman Award, 70; for the Vannevar
Bush Award, 20; for the Public Service
Award, 30; for the PAESMEM, 200; and
1400 for the PAEMST.
Estimated Total Annual Burden on
Respondents: 41,350 hours, broken
down by 1,600 hours for the President’s
National Medal of Science (20 hours per
80 respondents); 1,400 hours for the
Alan T. Waterman Award (20 hours per
70 respondents); 300 hours for the
Vannevar Bush Award (15 hours per 20
respondents); 450 hours for the Public
Service Award (15 hours per 30
respondents); 4,000 hours for the
PAESMEM (20 hours per 200
respondents); and 33,600 hours for the
PAEMST (24 hours per 1400
respondents).
Frequency of Responses: Annually.
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Dated: July 12, 2017.
Suzanne H. Plimpton,
Reports Clearance Officer, National Science
Foundation.
Jkt 241001
New Postal Products
Postal Regulatory Commission.
Notice.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
The Commission is noticing a
recent Postal Service filing for the
Commission’s consideration concerning
negotiated service agreements. This
notice informs the public of the filing,
invites public comment, and takes other
administrative steps.
DATES: Comments are due: July 19,
2017.
SUMMARY:
Submit comments
electronically via the Commission’s
Filing Online system at https://
www.prc.gov. Those who cannot submit
comments electronically should contact
the person identified in the FOR FURTHER
INFORMATION CONTACT section by
telephone for advice on filing
alternatives.
ADDRESSES:
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
David A. Trissell, General Counsel, at
202–789–6820.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
II. Docketed Proceeding(s)
I. Introduction
The Commission gives notice that the
Postal Service filed request(s) for the
Commission to consider matters related
to negotiated service agreement(s). The
request(s) may propose the addition or
removal of a negotiated service
agreement from the market dominant or
the competitive product list, or the
modification of an existing product
currently appearing on the market
dominant or the competitive product
list.
Section II identifies the docket
number(s) associated with each Postal
Service request, the title of each Postal
Service request, the request’s acceptance
date, and the authority cited by the
Postal Service for each request. For each
request, the Commission appoints an
officer of the Commission to represent
the interests of the general public in the
proceeding, pursuant to 39 U.S.C. 505
(Public Representative). Section II also
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establishes comment deadline(s)
pertaining to each request.
The public portions of the Postal
Service’s request(s) can be accessed via
the Commission’s Web site (https://
www.prc.gov). Non-public portions of
the Postal Service’s request(s), if any,
can be accessed through compliance
with the requirements of 39 CFR
3007.40.
The Commission invites comments on
whether the Postal Service’s request(s)
in the captioned docket(s) are consistent
with the policies of title 39. For
request(s) that the Postal Service states
concern market dominant product(s),
applicable statutory and regulatory
requirements include 39 U.S.C. 3622, 39
U.S.C. 3642, 39 CFR part 3010, and 39
CFR part 3020, subpart B. For request(s)
that the Postal Service states concern
competitive product(s), applicable
statutory and regulatory requirements
include 39 U.S.C. 3632, 39 U.S.C. 3633,
39 U.S.C. 3642, 39 CFR part 3015, and
39 CFR part 3020, subpart B. Comment
deadline(s) for each request appear in
section II.
II. Docketed Proceeding(s)
1. Docket No(s).: MC2017–157 and
CP2017–221; Filing Title: Request of the
United States Postal Service to Add
Priority Mail Contract 333 to
Competitive Product List and Notice of
Filing (Under Seal) of Unredacted
Governors’ Decision, Contract, and
Supporting Data; Filing Acceptance
Date: July 11, 2017; Filing Authority: 39
U.S.C. 3642 and 39 CFR 3020.30 et seq.;
Public Representative: Matthew R.
Ashford; Comments Due: July 19, 2017.
This notice will be published in the
Federal Register.
Stacy L. Ruble,
Secretary.
[FR Doc. 2017–14911 Filed 7–14–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7710–FW–P
POSTAL SERVICE
Product Change—Priority Mail
Negotiated Service Agreement
Postal ServiceTM.
ACTION: Notice.
AGENCY:
The Postal Service gives
notice of filing a request with the Postal
Regulatory Commission to add a
domestic shipping services contract to
the list of Negotiated Service
Agreements in the Mail Classification
Schedule’s Competitive Products List.
DATES: Effective date: July 17, 2017.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Maria W. Votsch, 202–268–6525.
SUMMARY:
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 135 (Monday, July 17, 2017)]
[Notices]
[Pages 32724-32727]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-14922]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
Notice of Intent To Seek Approval To Renew an Information
Collection
AGENCY: National Science Foundation.
ACTION: Notice and request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The National Science Foundation (NSF) is announcing plans to
request renewal of this collection. In accordance with the requirement
of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, we are providing an opportunity
for public comment on this action. After obtaining and considering
public comment, NSF will prepare the submission requesting that OMB
approve clearance of this collection for no longer than 3 years.
Comments: Comments are invited on (a) whether the proposed
collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of
the functions of the Agency, including whether the information shall
have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the Agency's estimate of
the burden of the proposed collection of information; (c) ways to
enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information on
respondents, including through the use of automated collection
techniques or other forms of information technology; (d) ways to
minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are
to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated,
electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or
other forms of information technology.
DATES: Written comments on this notice must be received by September
15, 2017 to be assured of consideration. Comments received after that
date will be considered to the extent practicable.
ADDRESSES: Written comments regarding the information collection and
requests for copies of the proposed information collection request
should be addressed to Suzanne Plimpton, Reports Clearance Officer,
National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Blvd., Suite 1265, Arlington,
VA 22230, or by email to splimpto@nsf.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Contact Suzanne H. Plimpton, Reports
Clearance Officer, National Science Foundation, 4201 Wilson Blvd.,
Suite 1265; telephone 703-292-7556; or send email to splimpto@nsf.gov.
Individuals who use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may
call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 1-800-877-8339,
which is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year
(including Federal holidays).
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Title of Collection: National Science Foundation-Managed Awards.
OMB Approval Number: 3145-0035.
Expiration Date of Approval: November 30, 2017.
Type of Request: Intent to seek approval to renew an information
collection for three years.
Abstract: The National Science Foundation (NSF) administers several
external awards, among them the President's National Medal of Science,
the Alan T. Waterman Award, the National Science Board (NSB) Vannevar
Bush Award, the NSB Public Service Award, the Presidential Awards for
Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM)
program, and the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and
Science Teaching (PAEMST) program.
In 2003, to comply with E-government requirements, the nomination
processes were converted to electronic submission through the National
Science Foundation's (NSF) FastLane system or via other electronic
systems as described in the individual nomination process. Individuals
can now prepare nominations and references through
www.fastlane.nsf.gov/honawards/. First-time users must register on the
Fastlane Web site using the link found in the upper right-hand corner
above the ``Log In'' box before accessing any of the honorary award
categories. The nominations for PAESMEM also may be submitted via
www.grants.gov. Nominations and applications are submitted on the
PAEMST portal at www.PAEMST.org.
Use of the Information: The Foundation has the following honorary
award programs:
President's National Medal of Science. Statutory authority
for the President's National Medal of Science is contained in 42 U.S.C.
1881 (Public Law 86-209), which established the award and stated that
``(t)he President shall . . . award the Medal on the recommendations
received from the National Academy of Sciences or on the basis of such
other information and evidence as . . . appropriate.''
Subsequently, Executive Order 10961 specified procedures for the
Award by establishing a National Medal of Science Committee which would
``receive recommendations made by any other nationally representative
scientific or engineering organization.'' On the basis of these
recommendations, the Committee was directed to select its candidates
and to forward its recommendations to the President.
In 1962, to comply with these directives, the Committee initiated a
solicitation form letter to invite these nominations. In 1979, the
Committee initiated a nomination form as an attachment to the
solicitation letter. A slightly modified version of the nomination form
was used in 1980.
The Committee has established the following considerations for
selection of candidates:
a. The impact of an individual's body of work on the current state
of his or her field of science or engineering;
b. Whether the individual's achievements are of an unusually
significant nature in relation to the potential effects on the
development of thought in his or her field of science or engineering;
c. Whether the nominee has demonstrated unusually distinguished
service in the general advancement of science and/or engineering for
the Nation, especially when accompanied by substantial contributions to
the content of science;
d. The recognition of the nominee by peers within his or her
community, and whether s/he is recognized for substantial impact in
fields in addition to his/her discipline;
e. If the nominee has made contributions to innovation and
industry;
f. Whether the nominee has demonstrated sustained influence on
education through publications, teaching activities, outreach,
mentoring, etc.; and
g. Whether the nominee's contributions have created significant
positive impact for the Nation.
[[Page 32725]]
In 2003, the Committee changed the active period of eligibility to
three years, including the year of nomination. After that time,
candidates must be renominated with a new nomination package for them
to be considered by the Committee.
Narratives are now restricted to three pages of text, as stipulated
in the guidelines at: https://www.fastlane.nsf.gov/honawards/medalHome.do.
Alan T. Waterman Award. Congress established the Alan T.
Waterman Award in August 1975 (42 U.S.C. 1881a (Public Law 94-86) and
authorized NSF to ``establish the Alan T. Waterman Award for research
or advanced study in any of the sciences or engineering'' to mark the
25th anniversary of the National Science Foundation and to honor its
first Director. The annual award recognizes an outstanding young
researcher in any field of science or engineering supported by NSF. In
addition to a medal, the awardee receives a grant of $1,000,000 over a
five-year period for scientific research or advanced study in the
mathematical, physical, medical, biological, engineering, social, or
other sciences at the institution of the recipient's choice.
The Alan T. Waterman Award Committee was established by NSF to
comply with the directive contained in Public Law 94-86. The Committee
solicits nominations from members of the National Academy of Sciences,
National Academy of Engineering, scientific and technical
organizations, and any other source, public or private, as appropriate.
In 1976, the Committee initiated a form letter to solicit these
nominations. In 1980, a nomination form was used which standardized the
nomination procedures, allowed for more effective Committee review, and
permitted better staff work in a short period of time. On the basis of
its review, the Committee forwards its recommendation to the Director,
NSF, and the National Science Board (NSB).
Candidates must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and must be
35 years of age or younger or not more than seven years beyond receipt
of the Ph.D. degree by December 31 of the year in which they are
nominated. Candidates should have demonstrated exceptional individual
achievements in scientific or engineering research of sufficient
quality to place them at the forefront of their peers. Criteria include
originality, innovation, and significant impact on the field.
Vannevar Bush Award. The Vannevar Bush Award honors truly
exceptional lifelong leaders in science and technology who have made
substantial contributions to the welfare of the Nation through public
service activities in science, technology, and public policy. The
National Science Board established this award in 1980 in the memory of
Vannevar Bush, who served as a science advisor to President Franklin
Roosevelt during World War II, helped to establish Federal funding for
science and engineering as a national priority during peacetime, and
was behind the creation of the National Science Foundation.
The Vannevar Bush Award recipient is selected annually by the
National Science Board's Subcommittee on Honorary Awards (AWD), which
is established to solicit nominations from scientific, engineering, and
educational societies and institutions, in both the public and private
sectors.
Candidates for the Vannevar Bush Award should have demonstrated
outstanding leadership and accomplishment in meeting at least two of
the following selection criteria:
1. Candidates must be U.S. citizens.
2. Distinguished himself/herself through public service activities
in science and technology.
3. Pioneered the exploration, charting, and settlement of new
frontiers in science, technology, education, and public service.
4. Demonstrated leadership and creativity that have inspired others
to distinguished careers in science and technology.
5. Contributed to the welfare of the Nation and mankind through
activities in science and technology.
6. Demonstrated leadership and creativity that has helped mold the
history of advancements in the Nation's science, technology, and
education.
Nomination Submissions must include:
1. A current curriculum vita without publications (no more than 5
pages).
2. A narrative statement (no more than 8 pages) addressing the
candidate's activities and contributions related to the selection
criteria.
3. A proposed award citation addressing the candidate's activities
in and contributions to national public service activities in science,
technology, and public policy.
4. Contact information for award candidate and nominator (mailing
address, email address, and phone number).
5. Two reference letters (no more than 2 pages each) from
individuals familiar with the candidate's accomplishments, and not
affiliated with the candidate's home institution. Letters should be
submitted by email to nsbawards@nsf.gov on letterhead as a PDF file.
Nominations remain active for three years, including the year of
nomination. After that time, candidates must be renominated with a new
nomination for them to be considered by the selection committee.
Awards Ceremony
The award recipient is presented with a medal and honored at the
NSF Annual Awards Ceremony and Dinner in Washington, DC.
NSB Public Service Award. The National Science Board
established the Public Service Award in November 1996 to honor
individuals and groups that have made substantial contributions to
increasing public understanding of science and engineering in the
United States. These contributions may be in a wide variety of areas
that have the potential of contributing to public understanding of and
appreciation for science and engineering--including mass media,
education and/or training programs, and entertainment.
Eligibility includes any individual or group (company, corporation
or organization) that has increased the public understanding of science
or engineering.
Candidates for the NSB Public Service Award should have
demonstrated outstanding leadership and accomplishment in meeting the
following selection criteria:
1. Increased the public's understanding of the processes of
science and engineering through scientific discovery, innovation,
and its communication to the public.
2. Encouraged others to help raise the public understanding of
science and technology.
3. Promoted the engagement of scientists and engineers in public
outreach and scientific literacy.
4. Contributed to the development of broad science and
engineering policy and its support.
5. Influenced and encouraged the next generation of scientists
and engineers.
6. Achieved broad recognition outside of the candidate's area of
specialization.
7. Fostered awareness of science and technology among broad
segments of the population.
Note: Members of the U.S. Government are not eligible for this
award.
Nomination Procedures
Nominations for an individual must include:
1. A current curriculum vita without publications (no more than 3
pages).
2. A narrative statement (no more than 5 pages) addressing the
following:
[[Page 32726]]
a. the candidate's public service activities in science and
engineering, and
b. the candidate's contributions to public understanding of science
and engineering, as they relate to the selection criteria.
3. Contact information of candidate and nominator (mailing address,
email address, phone number).
Nominations must be submitted by email to: nsbawards@nsf.gov.
Nominations for a group must include:
1. A narrative statement (no more than 5 pages) addressing the
following:
a. the group's activities, and how it accomplishes the selection
criteria for the award,
b. length of years of the program,
c. number and type of individuals served by the group's activities;
and
d. data on the success of the program (if available).
2. Contact information of candidate and nominator (mailing address,
email address, phone number).
3. Reference letters are optional, and up to 3 letters (no more
than to 2 pages each) may be submitted on letterhead as a PDF file.
Nominations must be submitted by email to: nsbawards@nsf.gov.
Nominations remain active for three years, including the year of
nomination. After that time, candidates must be re-nominated with a new
nomination for them to be considered by the selection committee.
Awards Ceremony
Award recipients are presented with a medal and honored at the NSF
Annual Awards Ceremony and Dinner in Washington, DC.
Presidential Awards for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and
Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) program
In 1996, the White House, through the National Science and
Technology Council (NSTC) and the Office of Science and Technology
Policy (OSTP), established the Presidential Awards for Excellence in
Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring (PAESMEM) program. The
program, administered on behalf of the White House by the National
Science Foundation, seeks to identify outstanding mentoring efforts or
programs designed to enhance the participation of groups (women,
minorities and persons with disabilities as well as groups from low
socioeconomic regions) underrepresented in science, mathematics and
engineering. The awardees will serve as exemplars to their colleagues
and will be leaders in the national effort to more fully develop the
Nation's human resources in science, mathematics and engineering. This
award is managed at NSF by the Directorate for Education and Human
Resources (EHR).
The award will be made to U.S. citizens or U.S. permanent residents
based on the following: (1) An individual who has demonstrated
outstanding and sustained mentoring and effective guidance to a
significant number of early career STEM professionals, students at the
K-12, undergraduate, or graduate education level or (2) to an
organization that, through its programming, has enabled a substantial
number of students underrepresented in science, mathematics and
engineering to successfully pursue and complete the relevant degree
programs as well as mentoring of early career STEM professionals.
Nominees must have served in a mentoring role for at least five years.
Nominations are reviewed for impact, significance of the mentoring
activity and quality of the mentoring activity. Nominations for
organizational awards must demonstrate rigorous evaluation and/or
assessment during the five-year period of the mentoring activity.
Award Ceremony
The awardees are hosted for two days in Washington, DC, for
celebratory activities. Recipients of the PAESMEM award receive a
monetary award in the amount of $10,000 from NSF and a commemorative
Presidential certificate. If scheduling permits, the President meets
with the mentors for a photo opportunity at the White House. The
Director of OSTP and the Director of NSF present the awards to the
mentors at an awards ceremony.
Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science
Teaching
The Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science
Teaching (PAEMST) is the highest recognition that a kindergarten
through 12th-grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for
outstanding teaching in the United States. Enacted by Congress in 1983,
this program authorizes the President to bestow 108 awards, assuming
there are qualified applicants. In even-numbered years, nominations are
accepted for elementary teachers (grades K-6); in odd-numbered years,
secondary teachers (grades 7-12) are nominated. This award is managed
at NSF by the Directorate for Education and Human Resources (EHR).
Nomination Criteria
A teacher may be nominated by a principal, another teacher,
students, members of the community, or the general public. Self-
nominations are allowed. Awardees must be either U.S. Citizens or U.S.
Permanent Residents. A Nominee must meet the following criteria to
apply:
Be highly qualified as deemed by their states, districts,
or schools;
Teach in one of the 50 States, the District of Columbia,
the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the four U.S. territories,
including the Department of Defense Schools (DoDEA).
Hold a degree or appropriate credentials in the category
for which they are applying.
Be a full-time employee of the school or school district.
Have at least 5 years of mathematics or science teaching
(including computer science) experience prior to application.
Teach mathematics or science at the kindergarten through
6th grade level or at the 7th through 12th grade level in a public or
private school.
Not have received the national PAEMST award in any prior
competition or category.
Application Process
Applicants complete a 12-page written document on five
dimensions of outstanding teaching (content knowledge, pedagogy,
assessment, leadership and professional development) and submit a video
of one class. Three letters of reference including one from a school
official are required, along with a resume or biographical sketch.
The applicant has a 7-month period (October to May) to
complete applications and submit them for state review. The nomination
period is from October to April.
Review of Nominations
State coordinators convene state selection committees of
prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics and science
educators, and past awardees to select up to five mathematics and five
science finalists for recognition at the state level and for submission
to NSF. To ensure consistency, state selection committees review their
applications using the same criteria and scoring information that was
approved by OSTP.
NSF (EHR) convenes a National Selection Committee of
prominent mathematicians, scientists, mathematics and science
educators, and past awardees that review the application
[[Page 32727]]
packets of the state finalists and make recommendations to NSF. NSF
reviews these recommendations and recommends one awardee in both
mathematics and science for all eligible jurisdictions, when possible,
to OSTP. Alternatively, NSF may recommend two awardees from a
discipline in a jurisdiction, when warranted.
Award Ceremony
The awardees are hosted for 3-4 days in Washington, DC, for a
variety of professional development sessions and celebratory
activities. Each awardee receives a citation signed by the President
and $10,000 from NSF. If scheduling permits, the President meets the
teachers for a photo opportunity at the White House. The Director of
OSTP and the Director of NSF present the citations to the teachers at
an awards ceremony. Awardees also have the opportunity to meet their
congressional representatives and education representatives from other
federal agencies.
Estimate of Burden: These are annual award programs with
application deadlines varying according to the program. Public burden
also may vary according to program; however, across all the programs,
it is estimated that each submission will average 19 hours per
respondent. If the nominator is thoroughly familiar with the
disciplinary background of the nominee, time spent to complete the
nomination may be considerably reduced.
Respondents: Individuals, businesses or other for-profit
organizations, universities, non-profit institutions, and Federal and
State governments.
Estimated Number of Responses per Award: 1782 responses, broken
down as follows: For the President's National Medal of Science, 80; for
the Alan T. Waterman Award, 70; for the Vannevar Bush Award, 20; for
the Public Service Award, 30; for the PAESMEM, 200; and 1400 for the
PAEMST.
Estimated Total Annual Burden on Respondents: 41,350 hours, broken
down by 1,600 hours for the President's National Medal of Science (20
hours per 80 respondents); 1,400 hours for the Alan T. Waterman Award
(20 hours per 70 respondents); 300 hours for the Vannevar Bush Award
(15 hours per 20 respondents); 450 hours for the Public Service Award
(15 hours per 30 respondents); 4,000 hours for the PAESMEM (20 hours
per 200 respondents); and 33,600 hours for the PAEMST (24 hours per
1400 respondents).
Frequency of Responses: Annually.
Dated: July 12, 2017.
Suzanne H. Plimpton,
Reports Clearance Officer, National Science Foundation.
[FR Doc. 2017-14922 Filed 7-14-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7555-01-P