The National Science Foundation Division of Undergraduate Education awarded Black Hills State University $2 million on February 1, 2027, under the Scholarships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics program to support STEM student retention and completion.
The award funds scholarships averaging $15,000 each for up to five years for 24 high-achieving, low-income undergraduates pursuing B.S. degrees in biology, chemistry, environmental physical sciences, mathematics, and physical science. Scholars receive faculty and peer mentoring through a dedicated STEM Scholar Learning Center and participate in learning communities designed to build cohort strength. The project includes undergraduate research opportunities and a student development event series focused on STEM career pathways. An external evaluator will assess program implementation and goal attainment, with findings contributing to the evidence base on effective support strategies for low-income STEM students.
The period of performance runs from February 1, 2027, through January 31, 2033. Work is performed in Spearfish, South Dakota. The project addresses documented national workforce needs in biotech, physical sciences, high-energy physics, and accelerator science by strengthening STEM degree completion and preparing students for regional and national STEM careers.