In order to cultivate the interest and encourage the participation of underrepresented minorities and women in the field of simulation, the INFORMS Simulation Society is proud to award sponsorships to assist graduate students from these population groups in the costs of attending the 2009 Winter Simulation Conference (WSC). Each award will consist of an honorarium of about $100.00, which can be applied towards the student registration fee for WSC. Prospective candidates should provide a letter of interest and a letter of recommendation explaining how the WSC can make a positive contribution to expanding their knowledge on simulation, and demonstrating the applicant's promise as a member of the simulation community. Please submit your application package electronically by November 1st to Bahar Biller at billerb@andrew.cmu.edu.