Historically Black Grambling State University in Louisiana has received approval by state officials for the creation of a Center of Academic Excellence in Mathematical Achievement for Science and Technology (CeMAST). Nine colleges and universities in the state of Louisiana, including Grambling State University, have Centers of Excellence that are recognized by the Louisiana Board of Regents. Grambling State is currently the only Center of Excellence that has an academic designation. The other centers have a research or workforce focus.
The Center supports the six STEM undergraduate degree programs housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, and one program in the College of Business. These programs are biological sciences, chemistry, computer science, cybersecurity, engineering technology, mathematics and physics, and computer information systems.
The new center at Grambling State has a goal of broadening STEM participation through the implementation of special programs. K-12 outreach will be expanded by specifically targeting underserved, rural communities that have high poverty rates. Opportunities will be provided for the university’s STEM students to earn an additional workforce credential by offering certificate programs. The Center will host institutes that will bring STEM leaders from across the country together to identify strategies for diversifying the STEM workforce.
