The College will receive nearly $500,000 over the next five years to provide scholarships and other support for students in science, technology, engineering and math.
The Supporting Scholars in Science and Engineering grant from the National Science Foundation will provide about $500,000 through 2012 to students who take an interdisciplinary approach to their studies. During the next five years, scholarships will be offered to 20 incoming students based on need and merit.
The goal is to attract innovative students, especially from groups traditionally under-represented in science, technology, engineering and math. The program has been dubbed, Converging Technologies Scholars or CT Scholars.
"These students will be mentored and prepared for leadership roles and have the interdisciplinary team experience needed in today's science and engineering workplace," said Therese McCarty, interim vice president for Academic Affairs.
Cherrice Traver, dean of the Division of Engineering and Computer Science, and Doug Klein, dean of Interdisciplinary Studies and Special Programs, worked with Jill Salvo, associate professor of biology and director of the College's Government Grants Program, on the successful proposal. The CT Scholars program will be directed by Professor Ann Anderson and Professor Christina Tonnesen-Friedman.