National Science Foundation S-STEM Grant: Students Expanding Possibilities Undergraduate Program (STEP-UP)
The San Jacinto College Aerospace & Biotechnology Academy and PI Gail Mason received a National Science Foundation S-STEM grant to fund the Students Expanding Possibilities Undergraduate Program (STEP-UP).
Award Total for 4 years: $344,976
Purpose:
STudents Expanding Possibilities Undergraduate Program (STEP-UP) builds on/expands a previous successful San Jacinto College CSEMS scholarship program. It will increase the number of students obtaining associate degrees and/or transferring to four-year institutions by providing an additional 30 scholarships and specialized support services for biological/physical/mathematical sciences, computer/information sciences, geosciences, engineering, and associated technology areas. It includes academic support, mentoring, cohort learning communities, tutoring, specialized workshops, academic tracking, and transfer/placement assistance. Optional industry job shadowing and internship opportunities are also available. This program particularly targets Hispanics and females. Aggressive recruitment, including on-site shared counselors, materials (some in Spanish) and presentations, will expand current efforts and existing partnerships with school districts, industry, community groups, and others. A Screening and Selection Committee will ensure the selection of appropriate participants. Students must meet NSF and local criteria, sign a contract, participate in at least five hours of career counseling, and have direct involvement with the Career and Employment Center.
STEP-UP will advance knowledge and understanding of how education and industry can work collaboratively to address a pressing national problem. An experienced NSF-grant PI, with a highly qualified team and using an effective management and administrative plan, will lead the program. The project includes creative approaches in recruiting, student support services, and mentoring.
The focus is always the Scholar’s learning and persistence. Strongly targeted is participation of underrepresented groups and area schools with high populations of underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students. Scholars will have education/industry/peer mentors and will be encouraged to participate in meetings/activities of professional societies. Results will be disseminated broadly to policy-makers and others through a variety of means. The ultimate benefit to society will be increased production of a workforce that will ensure a healthy regional and national economy, respond to demands for national security, and maintain and elevate the American quality of life.
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