Recruitment and Retention of STEM Students Sees Boost through National Science Foundation Funding

The National Science Foundation (NSF) recently announced that it will be funding six new centers to support the recruitment and retention of minority undergraduate and graduate students pursuing programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). The programs, known as Louis Stokes regional centers of excellence (LSRSCE) are being established in conjunction with existing academic institutions to provide support to underrepresented populations in STEM and ensure their success in today’s job market.

"With national news reporting that more than 2 million science-related jobs remain unfilled, NSF views broadening participation to achieve workforce diversity as a key driver for the nation's economic productivity and societal well-being," said Jermelina Tupas, acting division director of NSF's Human Resource Development Division (HRD).

The LSRSCE are funded by the Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program, which falls under HRD. The centers have been established with two and four year institutions that include Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Tribal Colleges and Universities; federal agencies such as NASA and the Department of Energy has also partnering with these institutions to support the program.

For further information about each of the LSCRES, click here: https://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=296504&org=NSF&from=news