Calling STEM majors: HU gets $500K in state funding for scholarships

Heidelberg University has received a big boost in its ongoing quest to contribute to the statewide development of STEM talent in Ohio. Heidelberg President Rob Huntington has announced that the university will receive $540,000 in Choose Ohio First funding.

The recent award is Heidelberg’s third through the Choose Ohio First program. In 2021, the university received $450,450. In 2023, the award was $1.05 million. All three grants run for five years.

Heidelberg will use the funds for scholarships for eligible students in 14 STEM-related fields including the university’s newest major, Data Analytics, and graduate program, Master’s of Athletic Training. Other academic programs include: Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Education (Adolescent/Young Adult track with focus in Biology, Math or Earth Science), Environmental Science, Health Science, Supply Chain Management, Nursing (1-2-1 program and BS-BSN program), Master of Arts in Counseling and the Computer Science Endorsement program.

Students majoring in the STEM fields for the first time are eligible to apply for the Choose Ohio First scholarship, said Cathy Belfiore, director of Financial Aid at Heidelberg.

“We are excited about the addition of this third grant,” said Cathy Belfiore, Director of Financial Aid. "This year’s grant award includes eligible majors that are not included in the previous two grants. This opens up additional STEM areas for students to apply for and allows us to award up to 45 new Choose Ohio First scholarships each year.”

Choose Ohio First scholars also will have additional resources as they navigate toward professional careers.

By participating in the Choose Ohio First program, Heidelberg continues its efforts to develop future professionals in fields with critical shortages such as mental health, nursing, athletic training, and education, said Dr. Nate Beres, author of the grant who also serves Heidelberg as Dean of Academic Strategic Operations and associate professor of Chemistry.

According to Provost Dr. Courtney DeMayo Pugno, the Choose Ohio First funding will allow Heidelberg to continue to grow and expand its STEM enrollment numbers, which will ultimately lead to larger numbers of future employees in in-demand professions.

Ohio has committed more than $200 million to STEM and STEM education scholarships over the past five years in an effort to meet the needs of Ohio’s employers.