In order to maintain the country's strength in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), colleges nationwide are launching initiatives to encourage students to enroll in these degree programs. Campaigns to boost interest in these fields of study include faculty-run programs that raise funds for improvement of educational opportunities.
Ron Eglash, a professor of science and technology studies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, has faced this challenge head on as he helped the school receive a $2.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). This funding will assist the school in creating The Triple Helix project, which will benefit civic science students.
One of the programs that will take place this fall will include a visit to area middle schools, where fellows from Rensselaer will encourage students to continue advancing their education and pursue studies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Other initiatives will reach out to college students, introducing them to these fields on both a national and international level.
"Rather than a one-way 'trickle-down' of knowledge, we will explore the possibilities for a 'triple helix' collaboration between universities, K-12 and community knowledge production as a way to engage disenfranchised students," said Eglash. 
