Gannon University continues the Scholars of Excellence in Engineering and Computer Science (SEECS) scholarship program. Over the five-year grant period, the program supports 20 academically promising students per year. The goals of the SEECS program are to: 1) increase the enrollment of financially needy, academically talented students in engineering and computer science programs; 2) assist students through scholarships and rigorous academic support, and 3) foster professional development to prepare students for STEM careers.
The cornerstone of the program is the Professional and Personal Enrichment Seminars which offer a single, shared experience for all scholars. Developmental workshops build social, academic, and career skills. Organizational and leadership skills are developed through team activities, colloquium speakers and field trips. The seminar includes a service-learning team design activity. Paired with a community non-profit organization, the students identify and design a solution to a STEM-related problem to aid the organization. Such enrichment activities make students more aware of the role of STEM professionals and help them develop social and leadership skills.
The project impacts are multifold: 1) to enhance the referral network and partnerships with the Erie City (PA) School District and local Talent Search programs; 2) to disseminate the program structure and successes as a model for implementation; 3) to empower students to provide STEM solutions to local non-profit organizations, and 4) to increase the involvement of women and underrepresented minorities in STEM professions.
