Davenport University, the beneficiary of three National Science Foundation grants in 3 years, has been awarded a new S-STEM grant for $647,527 to recruit, retain, graduate and prepare 20 low-income, academically talented students earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems or Computer Science for employment.
Over the next five years, 12 students will enter as freshmen and receive scholarship support for four years, and eight transfer students will enter as juniors and receive scholarships for two years. Using a cohort-based model, Davenport will utilize flexible delivery of courses and mentoring to assist and promote success for students who have intermittent external conflicts that pose barriers to consistent in-person attendance.
S-STEM scholars will receive an average of $7,000 annually, not to exceed unmet need. The scholarship funds are applied towards their two or four-year tuition costs for a total savings of between $14,000 and $28,000, respectively.
“Davenport University is committed to educating students in areas of our workforce with the highest growth potential, leading students not only to a degree but to a prosperous career,” said Dr. Richard J. Pappas, president of Davenport University. “These scholarships will help low-income, academically talented students achieve their goal to work in computer science and computer information systems, two rapidly growing areas of our workforce.”
Michigan’s Hot 50 Job Outlook through 2028, as published by the State of Michigan, names Computer Science as a major growth area. The State of Michigan anticipates 780 openings for Computer and Information Systems Managers each year with a 1.9% job growth through 2028. These majors include Computer Science, Programming, Data Analytics, Cyber Defense, Info Assurance and Cyber Security, and others.
Software Developers and Quality Assurance Testers, a job category that also included computer science majors, shows 2620 job openings annually and 12.3% job growth through 2028.
To make the list, occupations must show a favorable mix of long-term job growth, projected annual job openings and above-average median wages.
The scholars will be mentored during their time at Davenport University by faculty, peers and local professionals, and they in turn will mentor rising high school scholars.
According to The National Science Foundation, a well-educated science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce is a significant contributor to maintaining the United States competitiveness in the global economy. The foundation’s scholarships address the need for a high-quality STEM workforce and contribute to the success of low-income academically talented students pursuing associate, baccalaureate, or graduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
“We’re fortunate to once again be chosen by The National Science Foundation for this honor,” said Pappas. “Institutions are selected based on a demonstrated commitment to curricular and co-curricular activities that support recruitment, retention, student success, academic/career pathways, and graduation in STEM fields. We pride ourselves on offering holistic programs that meet the needs of our students at every level.”
The scholarships are application-based and if awarded, the scholars must demonstrate continued financial need based on FAFSA calculations, be enrolled full-time and maintain a 3.2 GPA.
The application for the 2020-21 school year is open now. Those interested in learning more and applying for the scholarship may visit davenport.edu/sstem.
