October 31, 2013
SIU receives grant to support STEM programs
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has announced that SIU has been awarded a technical assistance grant to help bolster Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programs. The non-monetary grant will also provide assistance and guidance to the University of Illinois at Chicago and City Colleges of Chicago.
“This grant will help three of our finest institutions produce more graduates who are prepared for 21st century careers,” Governor Quinn said. “STEM education opens more doors for the students of Illinois and gives them the opportunity to participate in today’s competitive job market. On behalf of one of only five states in the nation to receive this grant, I want to thank the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust for seeing the promise in Illinois’ future graduates.”
During the two-year grant period, the three campuses will develop STEM completion goals and analyze local STEM labor markets. This will contribute to state level plans for improving college training needed to support Illinois’ workforce development in these fields. The Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) will serve as the project’s coordinating agency.
“The three campuses selected are led by chancellors who are establishing reforms to improve student achievement in STEM fields, and are primed to maximize the in-depth technical assistance provided by this grant,” IBHE Executive Director Dr. Harry J. Berman said.