Congressman Pete Visclosky announced today an award made to Valparaiso University for an undergraduate program, under the direction of Gary Morris.
This program, "Mathematics and Science Education Enrollment and Development (MSEED) Program,” allows Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematic (STEM) graduates to earn a bachelor’s degree in science or mathematics, as well as a teacher licensure within four years.
Valparaiso University President Mark A. Heckler said, “On behalf of Valparaiso University, I would like to express our appreciation of Congressman Visclosky’s support of the work our faculty and students will undertake as part of our National Science Foundation grant, the Mathematics and Science Education Enrollment and Development (MSEED) Program. This grant will help Valparaiso University develop the next generation of teachers in mathematics and science who, in turn, will play a critical role in the development of future scientists and engineers in our country. This investment in mathematics and science teacher training is a critical step toward sustained economic vitality and job creation in our region and nation. It is imperative if the United States is to maintain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving global marketplace.”
“The MSEED grant will enable Valparaiso University to offer an innovative 4-year program that provides graduates with both a Bachelor of Science degree and teacher licensure in the mathematics or science field of their choice. The program is designed to give students intensive hands-on experience year-round, including paid summer internships. We believe this novel approach will help meet the nation’s need for science and mathematics teachers and result in more students pursuing advanced degrees in mathematics and science to fill the high-tech jobs of the 21st century. We are very proud to receive this grant from the National Science Foundation, and we thank Congressman Pete Visclosky for his support.”
Visclosky stated, “I applaud the National Science Foundation’s investment in the MSEED Program at Valparaiso University. By supporting Northwest Indiana’s best and brightest young students in their scientific inquiry and career development the MSEED program will foster the development of high tech industry in the region and help the nation remain competitive in science and technology.”
The award, which totals $499,950, is granted by the National Science Foundation.
The award will be effective August 1, 2011. Additional information will soon be available at http://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward.do?AwardNumber=1068346 and http://www.Research.gov.