UMES receives $2.5M grant to expand STEM programming, push for diversity in science

PRINCESS ANNE, Md.- “Because it really not only says that the University of Maryland Eastern Shore is a high-quality institution, but it says to others in the country that we are a science-related institution,” UMES President Dr. Heidi Anderson said.

$2.5 million dollars headed to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore looks to groom and develop future scientists.

The university was recently awarded the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Driving Change Initiative Grant with the goal of tackling the lack of diversity in science.

The university received the grant funding from a submitted proposal, becoming the first HBCU to hold the honor.

“As we know, there’s a limited supply of minority scientists throughout the country and throughout the world,” Dr. Anderson said.

“With a science background myself I know that when I was working in a pharmacy, I had patients come in who were happy to see someone who looked like them.”

The funding will be used to hire additional staff and classroom equipment.

A new program called STEM STARS will allow future students the opportunity to stay on campus and meet others with similar goals and interests. “We want to make sure the facility will have what they need to teach, do research and serve the students. Also make sure that the students will not only graduate, but leave invaluable knowledge,” Dr. Hsia said.

Data also shows that 60% of students who attended UMES pursue a degree in a STEM related field. “Here at UMES, I like to call it STEAAM fields. We have Science, Technology, Engineering, Aviation, Agriculture, and Math,” Dr. Anderson said.

Dean of Pharmaceutical Sciences Dr. Victor Hsia says this grant will not only help bolster the pipeline of future professionals but help brand their program. “We have a great program here, but people just don’t know. So, we need to build our brand and broadcast to the community and the nation so we can attract students,” Dr. Hsia said.

Funds will be allotted for students to gain real-world experience in their field of choice.

UMES was one of 6 universities to receive that award.

The HBCU will receive that $2.5 million in funding over the course of 5 years.