HU receives Choose Ohio First funding; scholarships to assist STEM majors

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 $355,346 in Choose Ohio First funding.

The recent award is Heidelberg’s fourth through the Choose Ohio First program. In 2021, the university received $450,450. In 2023, the award was $1.05 million, and in 2025, the award was $550,000. All four grants run for five years.

Heidelberg will use the funds for scholarships for eligible students in 14 STEM-related fields for both undergraduate and graduate programs. Other academic programs include: Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Data Analytics, 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 RN-BSN program, the Master of Athletic Training, the Master of Arts in Counseling and the Computer Science Endorsement programs.

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 fourth grant,” said Cathy Belfiore, Director of Financial Aid. This funding 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 will also 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 professor of Chemistry.

According to Provost Dr. Courtney DeMayo Pugno, the Choose Ohio First funding will continue expanding Heidelberg’s STEM enrollment and increase student access to Heidelberg’s unique resources, including the Barlow Body Donor Lab and Longaker Live Animal Lab. The majors supported by Choose Ohio First also help Heidelberg fill critical workforce needs in Ohio.

Ohio has committed more than $232 million to STEM and STEM education scholarships over the past five years in an effort to meet the needs of Ohio’s employers.