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Clemson awarded $1.9-million NSF grant
Researchers at Clemson University have received a National Science
Foundation grant to increase the number of students in the science,
technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields of study.
The $1,989,621 grant, “CU-STEP: Enhancing the Undergraduate
Experience through Research and Curriculum Development,” will
recruit and prepare first-generation students for college, and help
undergraduates to remain in, and graduate from, STEM programs. It
will also enhance the preparation of secondary school students and
increase their interest in attending Clemson.
Barbara Speziale, associate dean of academic outreach and summer
academic programs and professor in biological sciences, is the principal
investigator of the project.
“This grant is the result of collaboration between two of
the university’s five colleges, and three of its centers and
institutes,” she said. “This project emphasizes the
university’s commitment to undergraduate education.”
Clemson University’s College of Engineering and Science, and
the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences, in conjunction
with the South Carolina DNA Learning Center, Center of Excellence
in Mathematics and Science Education, Institute of Modeling and
Simulation Applications and the Office of Undergraduate Studies,
will partner to develop, direct, implement and evaluate a comprehensive
strategy for the program.
Some of the activities proposed to increase the number of students
prepared for STEM disciplines at Clemson include enrichment programs
for high school students, proactive mentoring for STEM freshmen,
undergraduate research and service learning, and curriculum modifications.
Co-principal investigators on the project are Bob Ballard, professor
of biological sciences; Calvin Williams, professor of mathematical
sciences; Jeff Appling, professor of chemistry and associate dean
for curriculum; Matt Ohland, professor of general engineering; Steve
Stevenson, professor of computer science; John Wagner, professor
of geological sciences; and Sue Lasser, director of the Program
for Engineering Enrichment and Retention.
An increase in the number of students in the STEM fields of study
will support the rapidly rising sector of engineering and scientific
industries in South Carolina. The goal is to develop a technically
competent workforce and build the leadership to expand these industries
in the state and nation.
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