University of Great Falls lands two big grants
The University of Great Falls has received two new grants aimed at student success totaling more than $2 million.
One grant focuses on providing scholarships to students entering science career fields and the other is aimed at improving student retention and graduation rates.
The $600,000 grant from the National Science Foundation will award full-ride, needs-based scholarships to Montana students interested in pursuing a degree in science, engineering, technology and math (STEM) field.
At UGF, it will mean awarding scholarships to students enrolled in biology, chemistry or mathematics degree programs, which have grown in popularity over the last few years at the private Catholic college.
"This is a really unique program," said Leslie Dawson, marketing director for UGF.
In addition to being offered scholarships, Dawson said these students will meet weekly to discuss goal setting, improve writing and communication skills and more. They will also conduct research projects together as well.
Dawson said she anticipates UGF offering 8 to 10 full-ride scholarships over the next two years and UGF will make a concerted effort to award these scholarships to first-generation college students in Montana and minorities.
It's a five-year grant to improve retention among math and science majors in Montana, according to the National Science Foundation.
“We are excited that the National Science Foundation STEM scholarship program will help high achieving Montana students fulfill their education and career goals with the University of Great Falls while relieving them of all tuition expenses," said Tim Laurent, vice president of academic affairs at UGF. "The opportunities with research and internships combined with the classroom experience will help prepare students to continue their education or enter their chosen STEM field upon graduation."
In addition to this grant, UGF received a $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support the UGF initiative "People, Place and Programs" which is aimed at improving retention and graduation rates.
The grant will provide funds for two construction projects designed to centralize student services, allow for an investment into student intervention software and provide for retention specialists to work with students, said Greg Madson, UGF academic dean.
Madson said the retention specialists will work directly with students on a person education plan that keeps them on track to graduate in four years.
Dawson said "Argo Central" will be built in the student center and will house services such as financial aid, the registrar and other important departments critical to student success. Additionally, the library will be remodeled somewhat to create a meeting space for students with retention specialists and easy access to librarians as well as the math center and the writing center, also located in the library.
Laurent said over the past three months, UGF has received $3.6 million in grant funds — all slated for scholarships and programs to ensure student success.
"We have been blessed with wonderful opportunities that allow us to help students reach their dreams," he said.
Reach Tribune Staff Writer Kristen Cates at 791-1463. Follow her on Twitter @GFTrib_KCates.