STEM Center Mini Grants

STEM Center Mini-Grants for Innovative Teaching Recipients

The Sam Houston State University STEM Center is offering mini-grants each semester, worth up to $2,000 each. These mini-grants are available for faculty who want to introduce active learning and revamp current learning plans in STEM courses. In spring 2021, 13 faculty members’ mini-grant proposals were accepted. Those recipients included faculty members from various STEM areas, including Agricultural Sciences, Engineering Technology, Chemistry and Mathematics, among others.

Assistant Professor Adrian Villalta-Cerdas in the Chemistry Department used his grant to integrate the use of virtual chemical experiences into his general Chemistry courses. Meanwhile, Assistant Professor of Agricultural Sciences Phil Urso received thermal imaging technology to improve the safety of students and reduce the stress on animals who are tranquilized and provided care in the wildlife management program. Just as faculty members’ needs vary, applications vary greatly based on the coursework and use presented. To see the full list of grant recipients and their project submissions, click here.

The STEM Center has a goal to increase the number and quality of STEM graduates by establishing a strong foundation for using innovative teaching practices and supporting students in finding research and internship opportunities to build lifelong skills needed for advancement and leadership within STEM careers.

Applications for spring 2022 mini-grants will be posted on the STEM Center website in the fall. For more faculty resources, student resources, information on the 2021 Summer Bridge Courses for incoming COSET freshmen, and additional information on the STEM Center’s support, visit www.shsu.edu/stemcenter.