The Planning Grant will allow the college to build infrastructure, form teams, and generate partnerships to assist with future long-term grants.
The grants total more than $1.2 million and were awarded under the West Virginia First Foundation’s Foster Care & Non-Parental Caregivers target area and Behavioral Health & Workforce Development target area.
The grant will support the university’s Hilltopper Pathways: Out of School Reentry and Support Program, which serves 6th through 8th grade students who are involved in the justice system or are considered at risk.
The grant will support the university’s “Building a Pathway to Cloud Computing Careers in West Virginia” project.
The Tennessee Valley Authority is investing $3 million into an endowed chair position for the university’s Department of Engineering. Brian Wirth will serve as the inaugural endowed chair.
The University of Memphis received a donation from the William B. “Billy” Dunavant, Jr. Foundation that has made the internship possible for students from all majors.
The newly endowed scholarship fund will provide financial assistance to military-connected students or those whose parents do not have bachelor degrees, providing increased accessibility to a university education.
Beginning on January 1, 2026, the university officially launched its new College of Nursing, elevating its longstanding and successful nursing program to its own College of Nursing.
The college’s Fast Track healthcare programs are designed to get individuals into healthcare positions amid the region’s critical shortages. Thanks to donor support, the college is offering more than $60,000 in scholarships for students to participate in Fast Track healthcare programs.
The Career Pathways program is an initiative of the Grand Rapids Promise Zone Authority and Grand Rapids Chamber and will provide engagement opportunities for students and give them opportunities to interact and experience in-demand careers.
