The National Science Foundation's (NSF) Research Careers for Minority Scholars (RCMS) program was initiated to encourage individuals from underrepresented groups in science, mathematics, engineering and technology (SMET) disciplines to complete undergraduate degree programs and matriculate to SMET graduate degree programs. This report describes the goals, structure, and influence of the RCMS program and catalogs the students' individual accomplishments and the accomplishments of the program. It addresses key areas of support for promoting and strengthening effective student and mentor relationships and also discusses faculty and student roles and responsibilities in those relationships. The report contains specific examples of institutions that have successfully increased student retention within the sciences and engineering as a result of the RCMS program. Also included are a project directory, a list of student publications and presentations, a roster of student graduates enrolled in graduate schools, and a list of businesses and other non-NSF organizations that have contributed to the program's success. (JRH)