(St. Louis, MO) Ranken Technical College has received a four-year $582,000 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to award scholarships to students. With this grant Ranken will be able to award scholarships annually for the next four academic years to students majoring in four technical disciplines - architecture, information technology, precision machining and manufacturing - taught at the college. Each scholarship may be renewed each semester subject to academic performance and funding.
The grant also provides funding to develop a special enhanced program to help students during their studies at Ranken and prepare them to enter these high-tech fields or enroll in advanced degree programs. These include: faculty and peer mentoring, scholar groups, academic advising and assistance, professional development activities and career services and counseling.
Ranken received the award after an extensive nationwide competition. NSF’s funding
proposals undergo a rigorous peer-review process, with each proposal reviewed by a number of faculty and administrators from colleges and universities nationwide. It is the first award the NSF has granted to Ranken Technical College. Funding of this highly competitive grant demonstrates the exceptional quality of Ranken’s technical education programs and curriculum.
The NSF Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S-STEM) program was established several years ago by the National Science Foundation and reflects the national need to substantially increase the number of American scientists, engineers and technical experts. To be eligible to receive the scholarships, prospective scholarship students must be a US Citizen, US National, US Permanent Resident or Admitted Refugee who wishes to pursue a degree in one of 4 chosen STEM related programs at Ranken. Students must demonstrate academic ability/potential and financial need to qualify for one of the scholarships.
“Not only do these scholarships provide much needed financial assistance to young men and women and their families who wish to attend Ranken, but the program also allows these scholarship students to participate in an enhanced learning environment,” said Ranken Technical College President, Stan Shoun. Scholarship students will be able to take advantage of individual faculty and peer mentoring, and the opportunity to interface with employers and industry leaders in each of these STEM related occupations. Students will also participate in additional educational activities that will help propel them into enjoyable, rewarding and well-paying careers.
“We are pleased to be awarded this National Science Foundation grant,” said Shoun, ”National Science Foundation support adds to the excellent reputation and prestige that Ranken Technical College enjoys. The college is a major contributor in the effort to continually develop a skilled workforce here in the Bi-State region and throughout Missouri and Illinois. The college produces over 550 highly qualified young men and women each year in 14 different technical fields. “
Prospective students interested in applying for one of the available scholarships can call Mike Hawley, Director of Admissions at (314) 286-4846, or email mehawley@ranken.edu
