Colorado State Program’s Exemplary Performance Earns Extra Funding for Underrepresented Students

Colorado State University’s Ronald E. McNair post-baccalaureate Achievement Program grant was recently renewed for 2005-2009, including a one-year bonus funding extension because the university’s program has exemplary performance in meeting the needs of underrepresented students.

The grant, which was awarded for $240,000 annually, is designed to increase the number of students from underrepresented populations attain advanced degrees. The program helps students from disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate strong academic potential by providing funding for doctorial research and scholarly activities.

The university works closely with McNair scholar students during undergraduate courses, encourages entrance into graduate programs, and tracks progress through the completion of advanced degrees. At Colorado State, 15 students per summer semester and 20 academic year scholars are funded by the grant, which has been awarded to the university since 1995.

The extra year of funding is given to few universities. Colorado State was awarded the five-year grant, as opposed to the usual four-year funding, because of the university’s success and planning to help students achieve their doctorial degrees. The university is the only Colorado school to be given this extended funding.

In addition to funding research, the grant proves funds for mentoring, preparation seminars for doctorial studies, summer internships, tutoring, academic counseling, assistance in obtaining financial aid and completing applications. The program is administered by Valerie Gallegos, director; Autumn Krauss and Mary Gomez. Grant writing assistance is provided by Elizabeth Marin and Anne Wilcox.