State Awards YSU $1.1M for STEM Scholarships

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Higher Education awarded $1.1 million to Youngstown State University’s Choose Ohio First scholarship program. 

The YSU-COFSP 2024 award and YSU STEM Advancement integrating Data COF promotes workforce development and data science opportunities for students through partnerships with regional employers, relevant training and professional development.

The award will support about 80 new YSU students over five years in selected STEM majors and graduate programs, integrating data analytics into their curriculums. The majors and programs include economics, engineering, computer science, mathematics, biology, chemistry and health sciences.

“These Choose Ohio First awardees, including Youngstown State University, represent Ohio’s best when it comes to preparing STEM scholars for success in the workforce,” Chancellor Randy Gardner said. “I commend Youngstown State University for its efforts in the Choose Ohio First program and for being among this latest group of deserving awardees.”

The YSU-SAiD COF program includes facilitating co-ops, internships, REUs and other transcribed academic and professional work experience pathways to high-demand STEM careers. 

YSU staff and academic or professional leaders promote experiential learning opportunities at mandatory monthly cohort meetings.

COF awardees are required to seek out and participate in experiences such as:

  • Recruitment of STEM talented students, especially from STEM underrepresented populations.
  • Academic support and advising as needed.

Applications, contacts and program information for the YSU-COF Summer Bridge and on-campus scholarship programs are available on the YSU-COF website.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.