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University receives new $1.2M award for Choose Ohio First Scholarships.

Pictured above: 2024 Summer Bridge Program participants

The ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ (UA) proudly reaffirms its commitment to student success through the Choose Ohio First (COF) STEMM Scholarship program. Now in its 15th year, the COF program continues to empower students by providing scholarships and essential resources to support their success in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medical fields (STEMM). 

UA has been offering COF scholarships to undergraduate students since 2009, and just last year, also began making them available to students pursuing graduate degrees in STEMM fields. Funding for the COF scholarships comes from the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE). The University recently received a new award for FY 2025 of nearly $1.2 million that will continue to provide vital scholarships for students in STEMM fields, advancing academic success and supporting Ohio’s future workforce. 

UA’s COF program is the highest-funded and largest initiative of its kind in the state, solidifying UA’s leadership in developing Ohio’s future STEMM workforce. 

“The FY 25 award of $1,199,800 for the Choose Ohio First program is a transformative investment in our students and our state,” said Fedearia Nicholson-Sweval, vice provost for student pathways and dean of the Williams Honors College. “By providing crucial scholarship support to students entering STEMM fields, UA is paving the way for a more innovative future. This program not only helps students achieve academic and career success but also strengthens Ohio’s economy by retaining top talent within the state.”

At its core, COF’s mission is to increase the representation of underrepresented groups in STEMM. The program actively recruits students from diverse backgrounds. By fostering an inclusive academic environment, COF ensures every student has the opportunity to excel.

The University offers incoming COF students a Summer Bridge Program, a tailored first-year experience designed to ease their transition to UA during the summer before their first semester. This program offers credit-bearing courses, tutoring and mentorship opportunities, equipping participants with the skills needed to overcome academic challenges and adjust to ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ life. For UA students seeking extra academic support, the Collegiate Success Program offers a range of comprehensive services designed to guide them throughout their academic journey. These services include peer tutoring and community-building events. 

As UA continues to expand its COF program, the focus remains on creating a strong pipeline of skilled STEMM professionals who will contribute to Ohio’s workforce. ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ interested in joining this transformative program are encouraged to apply now and take the first step toward a brighter future.

“Our program is dedicated to broadening access to STEMM education, and we are thrilled to offer even more scholarship opportunities to students eager to pursue these fields,” said Jasmina Waters, director of the Office of Academic and Retention Support. “If a student is passionate about STEMM, we want to help them succeed. ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ should apply for our scholarships once they are admitted to UA and join a community committed to innovation and growth.”

For more information or to apply, visit uakron.edu/oars/cof. 

Media Contact: Cristine Boyd; 330-972-6476; cbyoyd@uakron.edu