Ohio Northern University receives Choose Ohio First funding from Ohio Department of Higher Education
The university has been granted $1.19 million to distribute as Choose Ohio First scholarships to STEM students over the next five years.
Ohio Northern University has received $1.19 million in Choose Ohio First funding from the Ohio Department of Higher Education. The Choose Ohio First scholarship program was developed to push more individuals to pursue education and careers in STEM fields to bolster the state’s STEM workforce, and gives colleges and universities throughout the state money it can distribute to STEM students as scholarships.
According to an article on Ohio Northern University’s website, Melissa J. Baumann, Ph.D., the president of Ohio Northern University, was quoted as saying, “We’re thankful for the state’s commitment to our STEM students as evidenced by this generous award. Because of Choose Ohio First, many ONU students are able to pursue their dreams of an ONU education and they graduate ready to fill vital workforce roles in our state.” She continued, “Our STEM students graduate job-ready thanks to extensive real-world experience in internships, co-ops, and community-based research. We are pleased to be a pipeline of talent for Ohio’s businesses and industries.”
Over the next five years, Ohio Northern University will distribute its $1.19 million to students as Choose Ohio First scholarships. These scholarships will be awarded to students in STEM programs, including biochemistry, biology, chemistry, computer engineering, computer science, mathematics, medical laboratory sciences, neuroscience, nursing, pharmacy, and pre-professional programs in medicine.
According to the website for Choose Ohio First, the program is “part of a strategic effort to encourage Ohio’s economic strength by ensuring a ready workforce for STEM-related industries.” When a student is awarded a Choose Ohio First scholarship, which is decided solely by the participating school or university the student attends, the student becomes a Choose Ohio First Scholar and they are invited to participate in an annual Choose Ohio First Scholar Showcase. The showcase is an opportunity for the students to present research and network with industry business leaders.
Mike Duffey, the chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, said, “Continued support of the Choose Ohio First program means more Ohio Northern University students have an excellent opportunity to prepare for a successful future in their chosen STEM field. This latest award will benefit many talented Ohio Northern students in fields ranging from computer science and healthcare to mathematics and chemistry.”
For more information about Ohio Northern University, visit the school’s website.