Clark State College has been selected by the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) to receive $240,000 for the Choose Ohio First (COF) initiative. The funds will be used to award scholarships to students enrolled in eligible science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs and are available for the fiscal year of 2024.

The DeWine-Husted administration has committed more than $200 million to STEM and STEM Education scholarships over the past five years.

"These Choose Ohio First awardees, including Clark State College, represent Ohio's best when it comes to preparing STEM scholars for success in the workforce," Ohio Department of Education Chancellor Randy Gardner said. "I commend Clark State College for its efforts in the Choose Ohio First program and for being among this latest group of deserving awardees."

COF 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.

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.

“We are grateful for this funding,” said Dr. Adrienne Forgette, vice president of academic affairs at Clark State. “It helps make education and training affordable for students and accelerates their path to employment in high demand fields.”