Winston-Salem State University has received a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant that could amount to nearly $1.75 million over five years. The funds were designated to implement a new program, “Raising Achievement in Mathematics and Science (RAMS).”
The initial grant is for nearly $700,000 to cover the costs of the program for the 2009 and 2010 school years. Contingent upon the availability of funds, the NSF expects to continue support by awarding the project an additional $1,049,900 to carry the program through the 2013 school year.
Dr. Abdul K. Mohammed
“The RAMS program is designed to increase the number of science and mathematics majors who graduate from WSSU,” said Dr. Abdul K. Mohammed, chair of the chemistry department and director of the project. “It also will support our efforts to increase the number of those students who then enter graduate programs in the STEM areas which includes science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
“In addition to providing more scholarship for STEM students, the cornerstone of the program is engaging students in research on and off campus,” Mohammed added. “We believe the learning through research approach and providing faculty research mentors will increase the retention and graduation rates for these students.”
The RAMS program will also establish strong partnerships with area high schools and community colleges to broaden participation of under-represented groups in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. Using RAMS as a recruiting tool, the university hopes to create a larger pool of students graduating in these areas.
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