The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded Nebraska Wesleyan University a $649,863 grant that will provide scholarships and academic support to academically-talented science students with financial need.
The grant will fund Nebraska Wesleyan’s STEM Scholars Program, which will provide financial, academic and social support for selected students who pursue majors in biology, chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology, mathematics and physics.
“The sciences have been a hallmark of Nebraska Wesleyan for many decades,” said President Fred Ohles. “I’m very proud that 47 percent of all majors at NWU are now in STEM-related fields.”
“This highly competitive grant provides a wonderful opportunity to students who may not otherwise be able to pursue STEM degrees,” said Ohles. “It provides a promising impact on our economy as these students graduate and land successful careers in fields where there is substantial need. The grant also comes at an exciting time at Nebraska Wesleyan as we look ahead to a brand-new $27 million science center.”
Over half of the funds will be used toward scholarships for selected students who enroll in fall 2017 and fall 2018. In addition to assisting tuition costs, the grant will provide funding for students’ academic research, career programming, and other support to keep them on track for four-year graduation, including:
- A cohort that will put STEM Scholars Program students in common classes, activities, experiences, and housing that will allow them to live and learn together through their NWU career;
- Special career programming that will bring regional STEM employers, alumni and graduate programs to campus to help expose students to internship opportunities and career options;
- Monthly mentoring meetings with academic advisors and faculty mentors;
- Undergraduate research with travel funds provided for presentations at regional and national conferences.
To qualify, students must:
- Declare a major in a STEM field;
- High school GPA of 3.25 or higher and an ACT composite score of 23 with math and science sub-scores no lower than 25;
- 500-word essay on academic and professional goals related to a STEM career;
- Demonstrated financial need.
Applications are due Friday, February 24, 2017.
The National Science Foundation grant is one of the largest federal grants awarded to Nebraska Wesleyan.
“We’re delighted that the National Science Foundation recognizes NWU’s success in the sciences and wants to see our success continue,” said Ohles. “We look forward to celebrating the outcomes of the STEM Scholars Program.”