“This is a tremendous opportunity for students interested in energy, especially renewable energy,” said Jeff LaCombe, associate professor in the chemical and metallurgical engineering department. “The students will be supported all four years, as long as they meet goals, both in program participation and academic achievement.”
The National Science Foundation award will allow the E-scholars program to provide four-year continual support geared towards students with demonstrated financial need. Additional support will be given through study skills training, tutoring, organized peer study groups, field trips, demonstrations, interaction with industry visitors to campus and internship opportunities.
“Energy, and specifically renewable energy, has become increasingly important to Nevada’s economy,” said Manos Maragakis, dean of the UNR College of Engineering. “This grant will allow us to build on our strong renewable energy program, our dozens of renewable energy research projects and will provide qualified graduates to the energy industry in Nevada.”
LaCombe said the E-Scholars program is designed to encourage historically underrepresented groups in the engineering field, such as first-generation college students, women, ethnic minorities and disabled, to apply.
Applications are due July 2. Applicants must be freshmen enrolled in any engineering major entering full-time study in the fall of 2010. The E-Scholars program will be administered by the university’s TRiO Scholars Program, which will provide participants with the academic assistance and support necessary to successfully complete their baccalaureate degree.
For more information and to apply, visit the E-Scholars website at www.unr.edu/e-scholars or contact Rita Escher, director of academic and opportunity support programs, at 682-7780.
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