Receptions
Each day of the 2026 GMiS Conference concludes with an evening reception open to all registered students and professionals, sponsors, volunteers, and partner organizations. Each reception features a unique theme celebrating a different aspect of the GMiS Conference experience, along with heavy hors d’oeuvres and soft drinks for all guests, as well as beer and wine bars for guests 21 and over. Dress codes vary slightly by reception, but business casual attire is welcome at all three events.
Welcome Reception
Thursday, September 17, 2026
6:00–8:00 pm • Ballroom C
We kick off Thursday evening with a vibrant New Mexico-themed reception, hosted by our incredible partners from across the Land of Enchantment. We’ll honor two world-class engineers for their extraordinary contributions to STEM and conduct the prestigious pinning ceremony for our 2026 GMiS Scholars, celebrating the next generation of STEM leaders.
Dress Code: Professional attire suggested, business casual welcome
Sal Rodriguez II, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer
Applied Surface Engineering
2023 GMiS Scientist of the Year
Casey Anglada DeRaad
CEO and Founder
New Space Nexus
2004 GMiS Luminary
Featuring Rita Gonzales, Chief Technology Officer at Sandia National Laboratories; Roberta Ricci, President and CEO of the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce; Guillermo Diaz, CEO of Conectado; and New Mexico Technology Council
Route 66 Reception
Friday, September 18, 2026
6:30–8:30 pm • Ballroom A
Friday’s reception commemorates the 100th Anniversary of the iconic Route 66 while celebrating the people, partnerships, and milestones that have shaped our shared STEM journey. The evening will feature a special retrospective honoring CAHSI’s pioneering 20-year history and impact, along with a tribute to the dedicated professional volunteers whose time, talent, and commitment help make the GMiS Conference possible year after year.
Sponsored by
Dress Code: Professional attire suggested, business casual welcome
Celebrating the Journey
University Night Reception and Student Awards
Saturday, September 19, 2026
4:30–7:30 pm • Kiva Auditorium & Foyer
Co-Hosted by
The conference culminates with a celebration of our amazing students! Immediately following the conclusion of the Career & Graduate School Fair, students will learn the winners of our various conference competitions. We’ll also recognize our 2026 GMiS Scholars in front of their peers and close out the conference with music, food, and a celebration of our entire GMiS student community!
Dress Code: Show Your School Pride! University gear—including fraternity, sorority, engineering club, and other campus organization attire—is strongly encouraged for students and professionals alike!
Business casual or professional attire is also welcome.
Research Poster Competition
CAHSI Hackathon
CAHSI Data Analytics Challenge
Featuring Alejandra Ceja of Panasonic, Dr. Joeletta Patrick of Patrick & Associates, and leadership from GMiS, CAHSI, STARS and MAES