SEARCY, Ark. – The National Science Foundation has awarded a grant to Harding University to increase the number of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teachers in Arkansas.
The $100,000 grant will support a program developed by two Harding University professors to encourage graduating STEM majors to consider careers in K-12 education.
University representatives are expected to contribute to major Harding and community stakeholders to review school capacity. Harding will partner with Bald Knob, Searcy and Riverview school districts to serve as a resource during project development.
The spokesperson added that once the initial phase is over, the university will be able to apply for a larger NSF grant to expand the program, which could include scholarships and stipends for STEM undergraduate students dedicated to teaching math, science and programming in Arkansas schools.
“This award reflects Harding’s longstanding commitment to addressing Arkansas’ teacher shortage, especially in high-need fields like STEM,” Harding University President Mike Williams said. “This project is perfectly aligned with Harding University’s mission to serve the community and prepare undergraduate students for impactful, purpose-driven careers.”
Grant funding for this project by Professors Usenime Akpanudo and James Huff was provided through the NSF. Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship ProgramHarding University joins the University of Arkansas and UA Pine Bluff as the only universities in the state to receive a Noyce Grant.
A spokesman said Huff had previously received a $500,000 CAREER grant from the NSF.