represented by the Space Science and Technology Alliance. The aim of the NSSTC is to foster collaboration in research between government, academia, and industry. Alabama Cooperative Extension System The Smith-Lever Act of 1914 established The Alabama Cooperative Extension System. The system provides educational outreach to the citizens of Alabama on behalf of the state's two land grant universities: Alabama A&M University and Auburn University. The system employs more than 800 faculty, professional educators, and staff members operating in offices in each of Alabama's 67 counties and in nine urban centers covering the major regions of the state. In conjunction with the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, the system also staffs six extension and research centers located in the state's principal geographic regions. Since 2004, "Alabama Extension" has functioned primarily as a regionally based system in which the bulk of educational programming is delivered by agents operating across a multi-county area and specializing in specific fields. County extension coordinators and county agents work with regional agents and other extension personnel to deliver services to clients within their areas. Tuition and financial aid In the 2017-2018 award year, 3,701 Alabama A&M University students received financial assistance from Pell Grants, totaling $18,323,395. Student life Student activities The Office of Student Activities and Leadership Development (OSALD) provides services, programs and co-curricular experiences that provide students with opportunities to develop skills, improve leadership competencies, and enrich their college experience. OSALD has oversight of and provides assistance to several student-led organizations: Programs and Activities Council Student Government Association National Pan-Hellenic Council Social Greek Council Student Publications Other student organizations AAMU Marching Maroon & White (marching band) The Dancin' Divas (marching band danceline) Fabulous Flags (marching band color guard) AAMU Cheerleaders AAMU Gospel Choir AAMU Royal Court Sigma Tau Epsilon professional fraternity Rho chapter Phi Beta Lambda business fraternity, Xi Xi chapter Eta Kappa Tau Engineering and Technology Fraternity, Inc. - Alpha chapter Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity, Pi Epsilon chapter Nu Rho Sigma fine arts fraternity, Alpha Alpha chapter Sigma Alpha Iota music fraternity for women, Theta Zeta chapter Tau Beta Sigma honorary band sorority, Theta Iota chapter Voluptuous Bulldog Beauties (VBB)-Women's Plus Size Organization, and Dance Team AAMU Southern Belles The Collegiate 100 Black Men Of America Student Government Association AAMU Democrats AAMU University Choir M.A.N.U.P "Men of America Nurturing and Ushering Progress" Marketing Club Math Club MBA Association Poetry Club Ward Modeling Troop, Incorporated House