CSULB receives $775,000 grant

A grant received by Cal State Long Beach for $775,000 from the U.S. Department of Education will provide academic and research support for underrepresented, low-income, first-generation students.

The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program implemented this semester at CSULB will provide research opportunities, tutoring, counseling, and assistance in gaining admission to graduate programs and graduate financial aid for underrepresented students.

'The program is to increase representation of underrepresented ethnic minority students, women, and students with disabilities in fields where there is underrepresentaion of these students, [such as in the science fields]," said Alan Nishio, associate vice president of student services.

The program, named after the scientist-astronaut who died in the Challenger explosion in 1986, offers a six-week summer research internship and follow-up support during the school year.

To support their summer research internship, participating students will receive a $2,000 subsidy. Students must also have a 3.0 grade point average and be a junior.

One goal of the McNair program is to increase the number of African American, Latino and Native American faculty in colleges and universities across the nation.

Nishio said underrepresented students are academically talented and have the grades, but they don't think in terms of moving on to graduate programs.

"They're first-generation college students and are not geared toward doctoral programs," Nishio said. "This program gives the opportunity for the student to work closely with a faculty member during the summer internship and gives them something to show in terms of experience."

For students interested in applying to the program, one may pick up an application at CSULB's Office of Educational Equity Services, or call (310) 985-5637.