Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College received a five-year award from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for scholarships in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) for $599,855. Funding will provide $2,800 scholarships to 37 students annually for a total of 185 scholarships in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Students will eligible for the grant for two years.
“MGCCC is proud to participate in the National Science Foundation STEM program by providing scholarships to students pursuing degrees in science, engineering, mathematics or technology,” said Gulf Coast president Dr. Mary S. Graham. “College faculty advisers will work with the scholars to ensure academic success, develop leadership skills, and provide networking opportunities with business and industry.”
The proposed project, “Gulf Coast Scholars Leadership Program for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (GC-Scholars),” is designed to increase the enrollment of STEM majors to meet the regional scientific and technical workforce demand. By providing the scholarships to STEM majors, MGCCC will increase the pool of talented students with academic and leadership skills and knowledge to be successful in those career fields. During the five-year grant period, the goal is to prepare 185 of these students for transfer to university STEM programs or job placement in related field. MGCCC will also develop an early-alert and retention process for the scholars and provide educational opportunities for students to develop leadership skills and connect with peers, university educators and industry leaders.
Science, math and technical faculty from the three comprehensive campuses will serve as lead advisers. Grant funds will be used to provide scholarships, faculty-adviser overloads, recruitment materials, and other related expenses.
For more information about the scholarships, visit the college website, where you will find a brochure, application and letter to prospective scholarship students.