The Newman University 13th annual Hispanic Scholars Program (NHSP) and 11th annual Native American Scholar Program (NNASP) closed with a ceremony and banquet April 8 at the Dugan–Gorges Conference Center.
This year the two programs combined to provide 22 local high schools students an overall exposure to STEM education and an introduction to career opportunities in math and science fields.
The programs focus on helping at-risk student populations that nationally experience higher secondary education dropout rates, compared to other racial or ethnic groups. The NHSP and NNASP sessions are designed to help motivate students and prepare them for a successful path toward higher education and rewarding careers.
Newman Associate Professor of Biology Stacy Jones, Ph.D. served as director of the programs this year. During the banquet and ceremony Jones gave a brief presentation about what the participants learned during the previous two months. She also recognized each of the students, who represented four Wichita public schools.
“I think the program was a huge success as students received an opportunity to learn about career options, participate in fun learning activities and experience first-hand what it’s like to be in a college classroom,” Jones said.
Newman President Noreen M. Carrocci, Ph.D., welcomed the students and their families to the recognition dinner. Several Newman University faculty and staff who helped with this year’s programs were in attendance.
The opening prayer by Newman Chaplain Fr. John Fogliasso was translated into Spanish. The evening ended with four Native American guests playing several songs for the audience.
During the closing ceremony each student received a certificate from Provost Michael Austin, Ph.D., and a Newman t-shirt provided by the Admissions Department.
Learn more about the Newman University NHSP and NNASP programs here: http://news.newmanu.edu/hispanic-native-american-scholars-program/ and on the Newman website here: http://newmanu.edu/studynu/academic-information/scholars-programs.
