WASHINGTON, D.C. —Congressman Darin LaHood, today, announced a grant award of $646,028 for Illinois College from the National Science Foundation. The Access to Early Research Opportunities in STEM (AERO-STEM) grant, will support sixteen low-income, high-achieving students in undergraduate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs at Illinois College.
“Students who work hard and do well in school deserve an opportunity to pursue a higher education regardless of their background and this commitment from the National Science Foundation will ensure low-income students in our community get that chance,” stated Rep. LaHood. “This award is a testament to the great work being done by President Farley and her faculty and this funding will empower them to continue providing a high-quality education to those in our community, particularly in STEM programs. Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics enables students to become leaders in our community and keeps the U.S. competitive in the global economy. I am grateful for this commitment from the National Science Foundation and look forward to seeing the accomplishments students under this program at Illinois College achieve.”
Illinois College President Barbara A. Farley added, “I am deeply thankful to the National Science Foundation for recognizing the strength of IC’s innovative STEM programs and for awarding us this competitive grant. This funding will transform the lives of deserving Illinois College students with scholarships that give them access to the life-defining opportunities that are the hallmarks of an IC education. They will find valuable resources that prepare them for the future, including expert faculty mentors and access to hands-on learning. I am confident that the experiences they have at Illinois College will prepare them to become leaders in their communities and professions.”
Background:
The Scholar AERO-STEM grant is awarded by the Division of Undergraduate Education at the National Science Foundation and aims to improve education and provide a pathway for low-income students to participate in STEM programs around the country. The project will provide scholarships to students pursuing undergraduate degrees in STEM programs, such as Chemistry, Biology, or Biochemistry. The project will also provide mentorship programs, research opportunities, two-week summer programs, assistance in finding jobs and outside research opportunities.
About Illinois College:
Founded in 1829, Illinois College is a residential liberal arts college fostering academic excellence rooted in opportunities for experiential learning while preparing students for lifelong success. The college is located in Jacksonville, Illinois. With an enrollment of about 1,000 students, the college offers over 50 undergraduate programs. In 1932 the society of Phi Beta Kappa established a chapter at Illinois College, and it remains one of only 11 in the state.
Illinois College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.
