University Awarded $1.4M to Address Impacts of COVID-19

Montclair State University will receive more than $1.4 million from the State of New Jersey to support programs that help address the impacts of COVID-19 on postsecondary students.

Governor Phil Murphy and Secretary of Higher Education Brian Bridges announced the grants July 12, with Montclair State among 35 public and public-mission private institutions receiving $30 million in state aid to implement vetted best practices that increase college completion, address barriers to student success, and develop sustainable systemic reforms.

In addition to a $100,000 grant to fight food insecurity among students, Montclair State was awarded:

• $799,725 to support a dual-enrollment program for high school students in collaboration with the Newark Board of Education, and
• $510,775 for integrated initiatives to support increased participation and success by minority and economically disadvantaged students in STEM fields.

“These programs are designed to increase student engagement and support academic progress at a time when the challenges facing underrepresented and low-income students have been compounded by the global pandemic,” explains President Susan A. Cole. “Montclair State is steadfast in our resolve to meet those challenges in service to our students and the community.”

“The Opportunity Meets Innovation Challenge grant award provides critical funding that allows Montclair State University to continue to solidify its status as an R2 Institution and renews the University’s commitment to its mission of equity and access,” says David Hood, associate provost for Undergraduate Education and dean of University College. “Specifically, the OMIC will provide funding for the University to launch the Future College Graduate Institute in partnership with Newark Board of Education. Over the two-year grant period, the program will enroll 150 high school juniors and seniors from the city of Newark in Montclair State courses with a goal of improving college preparedness, providing clear on ramps to college, and educating and empowering the whole family to foster a college going culture.”

“Our institutions of higher education have provided a high quality of education to our students throughout the pandemic, despite challenging circumstances,” said Governor Murphy. “Supporting our institutions will continue to be a priority as they work to provide an equitable educational experience for students, prepare them for the jobs of the future and meet challenges ahead.”

“Through this critical federal funding, New Jersey is prioritizing students’ needs and ensuring our workforce will be ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s post-pandemic economy,” said Secretary Bridges. “We appreciate that institutions are committing to this challenge and look forward to learning from the innovative best practices implemented, as we strive to meet the state’s goal of 65 percent of residents earning a high-quality credential by 2025.”