Fifteen Southern Illinois University Edwardsville undergrads preparing to teach mathematics or science have been named Noyce Scholars for 2014-15.
The SIUE Robert Noyce Scholarship Program, created with two grants totaling $2.2 million from the National Science Foundation, helps to recruit and prepare 60 science and mathematics teacher candidates over five years for work at the middle and high school levels in high-needs schools.
Scholars receive $11,500 for educational expenses annually for up to two years, along with additional support through mentoring by expert teachers, travel to professional conferences, and other resources.
Noyce Math Scholars: William Fithe of Granite City, Jasmine French of Zion, Jon Heeg of Columbia, Mara Holloway of Belleville, Michael Nichols of Collinsville, Ryan Sleeper of Trenton, Rachel Unverfehrt of Hoyleton and Alexandra Washington of Homewood.
Noyce Science Scholars: Chris Foster of Pittsfield, Charles Graves of Columbia, Tom Hantak of Metamora, Ben Legel of Tremont, Brenna McIlvoy of Glen Carbon, JuliAnn Nipper of East Carondelet ;;and Colton Shaw of Canton.
Liza Cummings, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, leads the Robert Noyce Scholarship Program for mathematics teacher candidates. Similar to the original Robert Noyce Scholarship Program for science teacher candidates, the program represents a partnership of the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Education, the SIUE STEM Center, master teachers, community-based organizations, local community colleges and cooperating school districts.
“The Robert Noyce Scholarship Program for mathematics teacher candidates encompasses many features of the original Noyce science program,” said Cummings. “However, the Robert Noyce Scholarship Program for mathematics teacher candidates includes a partnership with Lewis and Clark Community College (LCCC) to give candidates early and additional opportunities to work with students. Junior-level scholars are expected to tutor students at LCCC within the area of mathematics.”
“The Noyce Math Scholars will have the opportunity to travel to a math conference, such as MathFest, during their junior year to expose them to math research in which undergraduates are participating throughout the country,” said Tammy Voepel, associate professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. “During their senior year, they will have the opportunity to attend a math education conference and learn from practicing teachers and math education researchers.”
According to Jessica Krim, assistant professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction and principal investigator for the Noyce science program, “The Noyce grants will positively impact these and future Noyce Scholars by providing an enhanced curriculum that will prepare them to work effectively as STEM educators, especially in areas of high need.
“Additionally, by involving quality STEM educators from the community and working with local community colleges, it is my hope that we maximize the networking potential for these scholars and raise SIUE’s visibility in the area of teacher preparation of secondary educators.”
Scholarship applicants undergo a rigorous evaluation process, according to Sharon Locke, Ph.D., director of the SIUE Center for STEM Research, Education and Outreach, “Scholars are selected based upon criteria such as outstanding intellectual and teaching potential, and the ability and interest to teach in a high-needs setting. Another defining characteristic in a Noyce Scholar is the individual’s ability to serve as a role model for students in targeted districts.
“Scholars gain additional teaching experience working in the STEM Center’s outreach programs. The 2014-15 Noyce Scholars are outstanding individuals who have demonstrated a passion and commitment to STEM education.
“Connecting SIUE undergrads with K-12 students in the region is a great way to promote STEM as a career choice. Noyce Scholars will help deliver hands-on activities that spark interest in science and math among our youth.”
Photo (Upper Right): SIUE Noyce Science Scholars – Front row (L to R): Brenna McIlvoy, Ben Legel, Tom Hantak and Juliann Nipper. Back row (L to R): Charles Graves, Colton Shaw, and Stephen C. Foster.
Photo (Lower Left):SIUE Noyce Mathematics Scholars – Front row (L to R): Jasmine French, Alexandra Washington, Marla Holloway, and Rachel Unverfehrt. Back row (L to R): Michael Nichols, William Fithen, John Heeg and Ryan C. Sleeper.