What is S-STEM?
S-STEM stands for Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, the STEM fields. The TWU scholarship program is titled "Scholarships for undergraduates: Focus on Computational Biology".
Who funds S-STEM?
The program is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) for 4 years beginning Aug. 15, 2008. There is approximately $600,000 available for scholarships and the S-STEM program is able to fund 13-26 students/year.
What are the goals of the TWU S-STEM program?
The overall goal of the S-STEM program is to increase the numbers of students pursuing advanced degrees and careers in STEM fields. The specific goals of the TWU S-STEM program are to:
- Increase the number of TWU students pursuing careers in biology, mathematics or computational biology;
- Increase the number of students, especially women and minorities, in biology and mathematics majors;
- Increase the graduation rate of students in biology and math, particularly minority and female students; and
- Decrease the average time to degree completion for students.
Why is the S-STEM program focused on Computational Biology?
By 2016, the Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects a 1.64 million increase in highly scientific and technologically motivated jobs. Many of these new positions will be at the intersection of traditional disciplines and are likely to involve computational analysis. With this impetus, the Departments of Biology and Mathematics and Computer Science are designing a new program in Computational Biology. The S-STEM program will encourage student to investigate careers at the interface of Biology and Mathematics and provide momentum for this new program, once initiated.
Who is the targeted student population?
We are targeting students who are interested in Biology, Mathematics or Computer Science majors and in pursuing careers in STEM fields, particularly Computational Biology. We would like to recruit from high schools and community colleges. Any student planning on majoring in a STEM field is eligible and encouraged to apply. Given the mission of TWU, we are particularly interested in funding women and students from groups traditionally underrepresented in the STEM fields.
What are the benefits of becoming a TWU S-STEM scholar?
TWU S-STEM scholars will receive funds up to $10,000/year to cover tuition, fees and living expenses. Scholars received enhanced mentoring from faculty and peers, career counseling, opportunities to network with professionals, and increased interaction with fellow STEM majors. In addition, travel funds are available for scholars to attend professional meetings and workshops.
What are the eligibility requirements for an S-STEM scholarship?
To be eligible for an S-STEM scholarship, a student must:
- Be a US citizen, US national, refugee alien or permanent resident;
- Be a current or accepted student at Texas Woman's University;
- Be enrolled full time (12 semester hours) in a non-clinical STEM discipline;
- Demonstrate financial need;
- Have a 3.0 high school GPA and/or 2.75 college GPA (overall and in STEM classes).
Who administers the S-STEM program?
The S-STEM Management Team consists of:
- DiAnna L. Hynds Program Director
- Brian W. Beck Co-Director
- Marie Anne Demuynck Co-Director
- Junalyn Navarra-Madsen Co-Director
- Don Edwards Chair, Mathematics and Computer Science
- Sarah McIntire Chair, Biology and BRIDGES Program Director
- Lynda Uphouse MBRS Program Director
- Teresa Mauk Enrollment Services
- Governor Jackson Financial Aid
- Deidre Leslie Career Services
How do I get more information?
More information regarding the S-STEM program is available in upcoming fliers and at the TWU S-STEM website (www.twu.edu/sstem). Inquiries may be directed to:
DiAnna L. Hynds
TWU S-STEM Program Director
PO Box 425799
Denton, TX 76204
sstem@lists.twu.edu or dhynds@twu.edu
940-898-2359
page updated 11/6/2009 10:31
