Federal Grant Award Summary

The University of North Carolina at Pembroke received a $1,999,818 Project Grant award dated April 15, 2026, from the National Science Foundation's Division of Undergraduate Education under the STEM Education program (CFDA 47.076). This Track 2 Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) project will support 30 high-achieving, low-income undergraduate scholars pursuing bachelor's degrees in biology, chemistry, and environmental science through May 31, 2032. Scholars will receive scholarships averaging $12,900 annually for up to five years, with the primary objective of increasing STEM degree completion and retention rates among economically disadvantaged students with demonstrated financial need.

In addition to direct financial support, the project delivers comprehensive student support services designed to enhance academic success and workforce readiness. Key services include faculty mentoring, weekly "Leadership in the Sciences" meetings, annual scholar retreats, dedicated study and meeting space, academic boot camps, access to research opportunities, industry site visits, and community outreach activities targeting K-12 students. The project incorporates rigorous evaluation through an experienced evaluator conducting surveys, interviews, and focus groups to assess progress and contribute to the broader knowledge base regarding evidence-based strategies for supporting talented, low-income STEM students in critical workforce areas such as biotechnology.