STEM Scholars Academy is a project that increases the number of financially needy students earning degrees in five discipline areas: biotechnology, chemical technology, computer science, engineering science, and engineering technology. Scholarships and support services are provided to two cohorts of 20 academically talented students with priority given to underrepresented minorities, women, and persons with disabilities. The Scholars Academy team is implementing a comprehensive recruitment campaign for eligible students using existing high school partnerships and a network of contacts on campus and the community to identify academically talented, low-income students. The scholars are utilizing student support services including mentoring, study groups, workshops, and career development activities. Special features of the project involve shared coursework and other campus activities to create a natural cohort of the participants.
