Siena Heights University has been awarded a $1 million grant for upgrading STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) equipment and STEM student scholarships as part of the federal Community Projects Funding program that was approved by the 117th Congress. SHU submitted its proposal with letters of support from the City of Adrian Mayor’s office, the Greater Lenawee Chamber of Commerce, and local businesses, to Congressman Tim Walberg in the spring of 2021 and 2022.
Through Congressman Walberg’s advocacy, SHU’s proposal was approved in his District as part of the House Appropriations Bill. This funding will provide $750,000 to support upgrades in STEM lab equipment, and $250,000 in scholarship support to students majoring in STEM fields at Siena Heights University.
Sister Peg Albert, O.P., Ph.D., President of Siena Heights University, said this of the Community Projects funding award: “We are incredibly excited for this wonderful funding Siena Heights University has received to support STEM education for our current and future students. A huge debt of gratitude goes out to Congressman Tim Walberg for his advocacy on behalf of Siena and our community. This grant positions Siena Heights University to continue providing top-quality educational skills that are highly sought after by our local business community. This news is great for Siena Heights University, and our local economy.”
Congressman Walberg’s office released the following statement after learning of the news of Siena’s Community Projects funding approval: “As a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, I understand the need to develop a skilled workforce and promote innovation in STEM fields. Siena Heights has an instrumental role in educating the next generation that will help our community meet the ever-growing demand in STEM related fields. With this successful Community Project Funding request, I am encouraged that Siena Heights will have the resources to ensure that our workforce is properly trained and ready to lead the way in American innovation.”
Siena Heights University has been the beneficiary of federal funding for STEM over the past five years. In March of 2018, Siena was awarded a National Science Foundation S-STEM Track 1 grant for nearly $650,000. Building on its success, Siena was approved for the National Science Foundation S-STEM Track 2 funding of $1,500,000 in July 2022.
By receiving this grant, Siena Heights University will help fill the national and local need for well-educated scientists, technicians, engineers, and mathematicians by supporting the retention and graduation of high-achieving students while providing an enriching and affordable educational experience.
Siena Heights University STEM students will have greater access to research opportunities and technology, which in turn will deepen the quality of their education and provide students with necessary exposure to a rapidly developing field, thereby serving the needs of employers throughout Lenawee County and beyond.
