Real-world competition provides an opportunity for student members of the Ethernet Alliance University Program (EAUP) to apply and present academic theories: The Ethernet Alliance, an industry group dedicated to the continued success and expansion of Ethernet technology, today announced the EAUP's first annual White Paper Challenge Program, which is open to both undergraduate and graduate students of universities who are members of the EAUP. The winning university and student representative will be awarded a cash prize and will have the opportunity to present a white paper at SC07 in Reno, Nevada, November 10-16, 2007. Membership in the EAUP is free to universities. The EAUP is a global initiative that serves as a forum for universities and educational organizations within the Ethernet Alliance to work directly with industry leaders, acquire practical perspectives of academic theories, and help foster the growth of Ethernet. The goal of the EAUP White Paper Challenge is to provide university students with a unique opportunity to apply and present academic theories in a real-world setting. The EAUP White Paper Challenge offers students a chance to begin networking with industry professionals for career or mentoring opportunities. "The Ethernet Alliance is excited about invigorating university students with a real-world competition that allows them to present solutions to further the progress of Ethernet technology and its practical usage," said Val Oliva, chair, Ethernet Alliance University Program. "The Ethernet Alliance believes that the White Paper Challenge will not only provide an opportunity to challenge university students in a new way, but will help continue to drive the goals of the Ethernet Alliance." Membership to the EAUP is open to universities that wish to contribute to the study and expansion of Ethernet technology. EAUP members participate in IEEE 802 Ethernet and Ethernet Alliance activities such as interoperability events and technology demos, contribute research studies on both existing and emerging IEEE 802 Ethernet technologies, and also provide university students with hands-on experiences in working with Ethernet technologies. In turn, Ethernet Alliance member companies enjoy the benefit of access to some of the best and brightest students from leading universities as resources for Ethernet activities. "The Ethernet Alliance is excited about the formation of the EAUP White Paper Challenge, and look forward to it becoming a highly-anticipated event that our EAUP members and students prepare for every year," said Brad Booth, president, Ethernet Alliance. "We fully expect that the program will be a one-of-a-kind showcase of tomorrow's Ethernet industry leaders." For rules and additional details about the EAUP White Paper Challenge Program, visit its Web site. Universities and educational organizations interested in joining the EAUP at no cost may apply for a free membership online at: its Web site.