Heidelberg University receives Chose Ohio First grant

TIFFIN — The Ohio Department of Higher Education has awarded Heidelberg University a grant of $450,450 through its Choose Ohio First initiative. Through this collaborative program, the ODHE hopes to provide substantive improvements to the pipeline of STEMM graduates and STEMM educators across the state. At Heidelberg, the grant funds will provide scholarships to Pell-eligible students who are majoring in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, health science, exercise science and computer science, as well as science and math education, according to Dr. Tony Bourne, vice president of enrollment management and marketing. The Choose Ohio First Scholarship is designed to strengthen Ohio's competitiveness within STEMM disciplines and STEMM education, according to the Ohio Department of Higher Education. Designated Choose Ohio First programs also are integrated with regional economies, meeting statewide educational needs, facilitating the completion of baccalaureate degrees in cost-effective ways and recruiting underrepresented STEMM student groups including women and students of color. "The support from the state of Ohio for keeping talented students learning and working in our state helps further Heidelberg's commitment to opportunity," Bourne said. "By supporting students with the most financial need, we're able to keep costs down and help students gain employment in high-demand fields after graduation. This is a great example of how Heidelberg works to create opportunities for social and economic mobility." Heidelberg will utilize the Choose Ohio First grant funds to award a total of 23 scholarships per year over the four years of the program. Overall, 92 students will benefit from the scholarship, which is good for their four years of enrollment at Heidelberg.