Mississippi State University Receives $180K for STEM Education

In a significant move aimed at boosting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education in Mississippi, Mississippi State University (MSU) received a generous donation of $180,000. This substantial grant was made by the C Spire Foundation and will aid in the development and implementation of online computer science courses, strengthening the state’s technological education profile.

Pioneering Initiative by C Spire Foundation

The C Spire Foundation, in partnership with the MSU Center for Cyber Education, has extended its support to high schools in the region, offering free access to quality computer science courses for the academic years 2024-2025 and 2025-2026. This partnership underscores the foundation’s ongoing commitment to enriching lives through technology, focusing on STEM education, digital literacy, and professional skills development.

The Importance of STEM Education

STEM education plays a pivotal role in preparing the younger generation for future careers in a world increasingly reliant on technology and innovation. Recognizing this crucial need, MSU and the C Spire Foundation are partnering to provide expanded access to computer science education for Mississippi’s young learners.

A Commitment to Future Growth through Education

The funding will be utilized to develop and implement two specific online courses: Exploring Computer Science and Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles (AP CSP). These courses are designed to inspire and engage students, providing them with valuable skills and knowledge applicable to future careers in the digital sector.

Beth Pickering, president and executive director of the C Spire Foundation, emphasized the organization’s dedication to cultivating STEM education and professional skills development. She asserted that working in synergy with entities like the Center for Cyber Education helps make their commitment to technological education a reality.

Labors of Partnership and Progress

Expressing similar sentiments, Shelly Hollis, director of the Center for Cyber Education at MSU, lauded the C Spire Foundation for recognizing the importance of computer science education for students and consistently contributing to its advancement. She noted that this mutual commitment has significantly impacted the growth of the state in terms of empowered teachers through computer science training and an increasing number of students enrolling in computer science courses.

Through the receipt of this considerable grant, the Center for Cyber Education at MSU is well-positioned to develop an engaging and enlightening online curriculum for the benefit of Mississippi students. This is an enormous step forward in bolstering Mississippi’s STEM education and fostering a generation of tech-savvy students ready to thrive in the digital era.