Findlay Selected to Receive Choose Ohio First Scholarship Funds; Computer Science, Pharmacy, Biology are Programs of Innovation
The University of Findlay will receive Choose Ohio First (COF) scholarship funds for students in computer science, pharmacy and biology programs, all of which have been designated Programs of Innovation by the state of Ohio.
The primary objectives of the Choose Ohio First Scholarship Program (COFSP) are to support increased higher education participation and success of Ohio students majoring in STEMM and STEMM education fields (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) and, in so doing, to advance the economic growth of each region of the state.
Unlike most scholarship programs that direct funds to students or schools based on a formula or a set group of criteria, the COFSP called for schools to submit proposals that described their innovative STEMM programs. The goal of the $100 million state scholarship program is to recruit students to study in the best and most innovative programs. UF will receive a portion of the $100 million allocated to the program.
Programs of Innovation are recognized for their ability to attract top student and faculty talent; offer academic quality and rigor, including co-op and internship opportunities; align with the state’s industry sectors and business needs; and promote inclusion and access.
Scholarships will be awarded in the fall of 2012 and may provide up to $5,200 per student. Recipients must be Ohio residents or graduates of Ohio high schools and meet additional academic requirements defined by the University.
Since 2008, grant-funded Choose Oho First scholarships also are offered at Findlay for students seeking to become licensed teachers of mathematics and science at the middle school and high school levels.