$510,775 for integrated initiatives to support increased participation and success by minority and economically disadvantaged students in STEM fields.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\u201cThese 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,\u201d explains President Susan A. Cole. \u201cMontclair State is steadfast in our resolve to meet those challenges in service to our students and the community.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe 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\u2019s commitment to its mission of equity and access,\u201d says David Hood, associate provost for Undergraduate Education and dean of University College. \u201cSpecifically, 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cOur institutions of higher education have provided a high quality of education to our students throughout the pandemic, despite challenging circumstances,\u201d said Governor Murphy. \u201cSupporting 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThrough this critical federal funding, New Jersey is prioritizing students\u2019 needs and ensuring our workforce will be ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow\u2019s post-pandemic economy,\u201d said Secretary Bridges. \u201cWe 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\u2019s goal of 65 percent of residents earning a high-quality credential by 2025.\u201d<\/p>\n