September 04, 2018

Manchin and Capito Announce $2.4 Million to Improve STEM Education

Funding will contribute to the success of first generation, rural undergraduates majoring in STEM fields 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $2,497,534 for members of the First2 STEM Success Alliance in West Virginia, a consortium focused on increasing retention and graduation rates among first generation, rural undergraduate students majoring in the STEM fields. Funding comes through the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) program.

“I’m excited to see this investment in the next generation of West Virginia STEM leaders. This funding is especially important because it supports first generation college students with a passion for science and technology. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee I will continue advocating for investments in West Virginia students,” Senator Manchin said.

“The 21st century workforce depends on students with the education and experience to compete in a global, digital economy,” Senator Capito said. “It is critical that policymakers, educators, and business leaders work together to emphasize the importance of STEM education to our state’s youth and ensure those majoring in the STEM fields have the opportunity to be successful. This funding will support collaborative efforts on the part of West Virginia education professionals and students to develop solutions that support student success. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for resources that help prepare our state and its youth for the future.”

Individual awards listed below:

  • $960,622 – Fairmont State College
  • $644,009 – West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission
  • $605,557 – High Rocks Educational Corporation
  • $287,346 – West Virginia University Research Corporation 

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