SXU receives $598,000 National Science Foundation grant

Funding will aid computer science and computer studies majors

Chicago (May 29, 2009) Saint Xavier University received a $598,000 grant from the National Science Foundation’s Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics program to provide financial, academic and career-planning assistance to students majoring in computer science and computer studies.

The four-year award targets first-generation college students from underrepresented populations in the computing field, such as women and minorities.

“This generous grant ensures our students, particularly those from backgrounds underrepresented in the computer industry, are prepared to compete in a complex and constantly evolving field,” said Saint Xavier President Judith A. Dwyer, Ph.D.

The award implements a community-building approach to support academic success, retention through graduation and employment or graduate school placement in the computing field.
The program is designed to build students’ confidence in a challenging field and expose them to careers in computing. Opportunities for students include faculty- and peer-mentoring, seminars, comprehensive career-planning, tutoring, internships, service learning, research, conference attendance and social gatherings.

Computer science Professor Florence Appel, D.A., will direct the program. Computer science Professor Jean Mehta, D.A., and Director of Career Services Jean Riordan will assist Appel as co-directors.

“This grant will enable us to attract more talented students into the computing field and provide them with meaningful support,” Appel said. “We know in these difficult economic times, annual scholarships can make a huge difference for our students.”

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