VSU Awarded Lockheed Martin Grant To Strengthen Stem Opportunities For Underrepresented Students

The grant will support the University’s efforts to expand pre-college preparation and undergraduate research programs for STEM students.

Virginia State University is proud to announce that its College of Engineering and Technology has been awarded a $100,000 Lockheed Martin Grant in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) for the 2025 academic year.

The funding will support the launch of a new initiative, STEP UP – Strengthening Talent, Enrollment, and Persistence through Undergraduate Research and Pre-College Program.

STEP UP aims to improve student success by offering pre-college preparation and undergraduate research opportunities. Specifically tailored for underrepresented students in STEM, the program addresses academic readiness while boosting retention and graduation rates in engineering and computer science disciplines.

"This grant from Lockheed Martin allows us to enhance our pre-college and undergraduate research programs, providing students with the foundational skills and support needed to succeed in STEM," said Dr. Dawit Haile, Dean of the College of Engineering and Technology. "It represents a vital step in our commitment to building and sustaining a stronger, more diverse pipeline of future leaders in engineering, computing, and technology fields."

The grant will fund the expansion of VSU's Summer Transition and Enrichment Program (STEP), providing resources for pre-college bridge programs, peer mentorship, and research activities. The initiative will focus on incoming freshmen, strengthening their academic foundations, particularly in mathematics and science, ensuring long-term student success.

The College of Engineering and Technology at VSU has a strong track record of fostering social and economic mobility for its students, especially first-generation college attendees from under-resourced communities. The University expects the STEP UP program to play a pivotal role in maintaining this momentum by offering enriched academic experiences and increasing industry engagement opportunities.