This project is awarding scholarships to academically talented students and is supporting the scholars through a variety of structures and programs already in place on campus. Students from underrepresented groups are being especially targeted for support. To augment scholarship funds, students are being encouraged to pursue either undergraduate research experiences or co-ops or internships with local industries. Through the combination of scholarship and employment opportunities, students can cover up to 88% of the total cost of their education. Students are targeted for participation in three departments: chemical engineering, electrical engineering and computer science, and industrial and information engineering. The disciplines targeted through this program are well represented within the industry needs of the Southeastern region of the U.S. Retaining at least 95% of the student scholars and placing at least 25% of the participants in graduate programs are project goals.
