The US Energy Secretary's Visit to South Carolina State University
Many colleges are pushing for better STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs to encourage students to pursue these degrees, providing career longevity. There is no doubt that HBCUs have had a huge impact on the increase of Black representation in STEM fields. Just to name a few staggering numbers, HBCUs have produced 25% of Black STEM graduates, 30% of Black STEM doctorates and 46% of Black women graduates in STEM disciplines between 1995 and 2004. Despite HBCUs incredible impact, funding remains necessary and will serve to only build upon their legacy and increase Black representation in STEM fields.
To remedy this lack of representation in STEM, the Biden Administration is working to provide more funding and research opportunities for HBCUs, with the latest news surrounding Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm’s trip to South Carolina State University.
U.S. Energy Secretary, Jennifer Granholm, visited South Carolina State University on February 17th as part of the Biden Administration’s initiative to improve federal funding for nuclear engineering programs. As reported by the Charlotte Observer, Granholm hosted a discussion with HBCU leaders about funding opportunities for STEM-related programs. In May 2021, Granholm announced a $17 million initiative to support HBCUs and other minority institutions in their research and internship efforts.
The secretary’s visit to South Carolina State University is significant, as the institution is the only HBCU in America that offers a four-year nuclear engineering program. In June 2021, the Energy Department awarded HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions over $2.85 million for support in nuclear and particle physics research and training opportunities for students. The funding is part of the Biden Administration’s $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package.