Clark State College has been selected by the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) to receive $207,480 for the Choose Ohio First initiative. The funds will be used to award scholarships to students enrolled in eligible science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs including:
- Agriculture
- Geospatial
- Management – Logistics Materials and Supply Chain Management
- Manufacturing Technology Management
- Medical Laboratory Technology
- Emergency Medical Services
“Clark State is very excited to be a recipient of the Choose Ohio First award starting next academic year,” said Dr. Christopher Green, assistant dean, school of health, human and public services at Clark State. “We look forward to recruiting and retaining diverse students in STEM fields by providing scholarship funds and connecting students to work-based learning experiences with our partners and fostering careers in STEM fields.”
Choose Ohio First is an initiative promoted and administered by the ODHE that provides scholarships to students in innovative academic programs in STEM fields. Choose Ohio First is part of a strategic effort to deepen Ohio’s economic strength by increasing the talent pipeline for STEM-related industries.
“The Choose Ohio First program continues to grow as colleges and universities new to the program see its benefits,” said Randy Gardner, Chancellor of the ODHE. “This funding exemplifies the state’s ongoing commitment to Choose Ohio First and shows the importance of preparing those students who stay in Ohio and continue their education for success in promising STEM careers.”
This new Choose Ohio First scholarship is the third round of grants for the program under the DeWine-Husted administration. It will create new scholarship opportunities at 44 colleges and universities across the state, including several schools that are new to the program.
“The Choose Ohio First scholarship is just one example of how Ohio continues to invest in growing our STEM talent,” Lt. Governor Husted said. “We want our students to stay and work in Ohio. These scholarships will help young Ohioans gain valuable STEM skills, preparing them for one of Ohio's many in-demand jobs and ensuring businesses have the talent they need to succeed.”
Clark State will award scholarships to students desiring a certificate, associate degree, baccalaureate degree, or graduate degree in eligible STEM education fields.
The Choose Ohio First scholarships are competitive, varying in amounts starting at $1,500 to $5,200 annually.