The Ohio Department of Education announced that Cleveland State University is among the 11 schools in Northeast Ohio to receive funding from Choose Ohio First in its new round of program grants.
Over the next five years, CSU will be given $839,999.94 to create scholarship opportunities and more for students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics–-also known as STEM.
The Choose Ohio First Scholarship is a unique state-funded program designed to advance STEM education and graduate more students in the fields. Launched in 2008, the program is now in its fourth round of grant funding under state Gov. Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted.
“We are fighting for and winning some of the largest economic development projects in the country, but we need to be able to supply companies with an educated, trained workforce,” Lt. Gov. Husted said in an announcement of the funding. “Choose Ohio First scholarships help keep our kids and grandkids right here in Ohio to further their education in STEM without racking up student loan debt.”
By awarding funds regularly to schools and universities across the state, Choose Ohio First aims to make education more cost-effective and recruit underrepresented STEM student groups, including women and people of color.
“The goals of the Choose Ohio First Scholarships align seamlessly with our vision for CSU’s future, including strengthening our partnerships with Greater Cleveland businesses and promoting an inclusive environment for STEM education,” CSU President Laura J. Bloomberg said. “Thanks to the Ohio Department of Higher Education, we can provide additional financial support to students and prepare graduates for careers in advancing, cutting-edge markets.”
