The National Science Foundation awarded Tuskegee University a $5 million grant to enhance STEM education for students from low-income communities. This funding will be distributed through the RISE Consortium, which includes several institutions across Alabama and Michigan. Tuskegee serves as the lead institution.
The grant allocation provides Tuskegee University with $2.17 million. Of that, nearly $750,000 is explicitly earmarked for scholarships to support both undergraduate and graduate students. The consortium also comprises Auburn University, Auburn University Montgomery, Troy University, Southern Union State Community College, and Oakland University in Michigan.
Tuskegee Appreciative of the Grant
Dr. Mark Brown, president and CEO of Tuskegee, expressed the significance of the grant. “Tuskegee’s storied history means that the research we conduct is focused on solving national problems. At the same time, we are the #1 HBCU for Social and Economic Mobility. This framework aligns perfectly with the NSF grant, which rewards the hard work that has gone into providing our students with state-of-the art STEM research and learning while ensuring those most in need will be able to continue their education at Tuskegee,” stated Dr. Brown. He further congratulated everyone involved for their efforts in securing this vital support.
Over the next five years, approximately 25 students from Tuskegee University will benefit from the RISE program, which provides mentoring and scholarship support. Participants will engage in research opportunities, including developing simulation skills critical for planning future industry solutions. In addition to hands-on experience, students will receive professional career development guidance, network at annual conferences across the consortium, and prepare for advanced studies in graduate school.
Leading the Consortium
Dr. Mohammed A. Qazi is a professor and associate dean for research and outreach in the College of Arts and Sciences. He is the principal investigator overseeing the RISE Consortium. Qazi is supported by fellow Tuskegee investigators Dr. Mandoye Ndoye, Dr. Vijaya Rangari, and Dr. Shaik Zainuddin. Dr. Qazi emphasized the program’s holistic approach. “Through an ecosystem of co-curricular consortium activities, students will be introduced to cutting-edge technologies and be mentored continuously through a network of faculty at consortium institutions and industry specialists, a strategy that is designed to deepen students’ identification as future STEM professionals,” said Dr. Qazi.
Additionally, Dr. Prakash, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, noted that the grant underscores Tuskegee University’s commitment to excellence in STEM education. “This grant helps ensure our students from underrepresented and low-income communities are equipped with the tools and opportunities to succeed,” said Dr. Prakash. “Through this collaborative effort, we are not only investing in the future of our students but also in the future of innovation.”
