Saint Augustine’s University (SAU)’s Upward Bound Math & Science program (UBMS) will receive over $297,000 in funding from the United States Department of Education. Beginning in October, the grant is renewable for over $1.4 million in funding over the next five years. 

The purpose of the UBMS program is to strengthen the math and science skills of low-income and first-generation college students to help them develop their potential. In addition, the program also encourages students to pursue post-secondary degrees in math and science and, ultimately, careers in the math and science industry. 

“This award is evidence that SAU’s commitment to student success in the area of STEM extends well beyond our gates,” said SAU President Dr. Christine Johnson McPhail. “I’m excited about us encouraging high school students in Halifax County to pursue post-secondary degrees in math and science, and ultimately careers in math and science for the next five years and beyond.” 

Required services for the UBMS program include academic tutoring, assistance in secondary and post-secondary course selection, college admittance and examination preparation, assistance in secondary school reentry and GED programs, and financial literacy counseling services.  

The UBMS program participants will also receive opportunities to learn from mathematicians and scientists and gain hands-on experience in laboratories, computer facilities, and field sites.

“Providing services and hands-on experiences through the UBMS program allows SAU to continue its mission of preparing students to compete globally in the STEM field. We are honored to provide and promote such preparation,” said Dr. Leslie Rodriguez-McClellon, Senior Vice President, Student Experience. 

“We celebrate the refunding of the Saint Augustine’s University Halifax County Upward Bound Math and Science program. The UBMS program continues to enhance STEM along with academic and cultural offerings to high school students in Northeastern North Carolina,” said Antonio C. Stephens, Director of the SAU TRIO Center of Excellence. “Since 2012, the institution has been creating these outreach opportunities to students who would not normally receive them, and we are excited to be a part of that.”