Press Conference to Announce Details of Nearly $620K in Funding
KANSAS CITY, Kan., April 8, 2015—Donnelly College will hold a press conference on Friday, April 17 at 10:30 a.m. announcing details of a major grant the College recently received.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded the grant to Donnelly's Project S4 (Scholarships and Supports for STEM Success). This $619,800 grant will provide scholarships for more than 50 students pursuing majors in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Specifically, the grant will help recruit, retain and graduate students working toward a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems or an Associate of Science Degree in Biological or Physical Science.
Monsignor Stuart W. Swetland, President of Donnelly College (who majored in physics as an undergraduate at the United States Naval Academy), was excited by the news.
"A majority of Donnelly College students come from families with incomes less than $18,000 per year," he said. "A majority also come from minority ethnic groups in our society. Historically, these students are underrepresented in higher education and leadership, and especially in the STEM areas. We hope the grant will help us aid our students to overcome this historical injustice."
In administering Project S4, College representatives will create a dedicated learning community for STEM students at Donnelly and will test the effect of two required, linked professional experiences (service learning and either job shadowing or an internship).
Additionally, funding for Project S4 will allow the College to strengthen its partnership with local STEM-related companies, allowing graduates to take advantage of growing employment opportunities around the metro area.
"We are thrilled to accept this generous grant from the National Science Foundation," said Vice President for Advancement Emily Buckley. "This funding will benefit so many students and will allow Donnelly to attract many future STEM students. We know this will take our academics and our overall student experience to a higher level."
Congressman Kevin Yoder will speak on the impact of this grant at the press conference, joining College representatives in providing further information on how funding will be used.
Media personnel are invited to attend the press conference, which will be held in Donnelly's Community Event Center — located just north of the main tower at 608 N. 18th St. in Kansas City, Kan.