The Society for Science & the Public recently announced that New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State (NYITCOM at A-State) is one of 60 advocates that has been awarded a $3,000 grant from the organization. The funds will be used to mentor underrepresented and low-income high school students, and guide them in entering science research competitions.
“It’s very important to NYITCOM that we foster interests in science in young people and this grant provides an excellent opportunity for us to do just that,” said Rajendram Rajnarayanan, PhD, assistant dean of research at NYITCOM at A-State. “We’re very grateful to the Society for Science & Public and we appreciate their support as we work to build partnerships with high school students in the Delta.”
Through the Advocate Grant Program, educators and scientists expand opportunities for underserved students who have the potential, yet lack the necessary resources, to succeed in STEM fields. Each advocate will mentor a cohort of three or more students, providing support as they complete science research projects and apply to compete in science research competitions.
“It’s imperative that we make STEM education opportunities accessible to all students,” said Maya Ajmera, president and chief executive officer of the Society for Science & the Public and publisher of Science News. “By nurturing young, talented minds, the Society’s Advocate Program is bolstering a pipeline of future scientific and engineering leaders.”
Students who participate in science research competitions not only gain confidence, but also acquire important problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and effective communication skills.
To date, more than 1,500 students who have participated in the Advocate Grant Program competed in nearly 2,400 science research competitions. Additionally, since the program’s launch in 2015, more than 2,000 students have worked with the Society’s Advocates. Ninety percent of those students are low-income and 70 percent are an underrepresented group.