JJC awarded National Science Foundation grant

JOLIET - Rep. Bill Foster, D-Naperville, announced Tuesday that Joliet Junior College was awarded a National Science Foundation grant worth $649,901, according to a press release from Foster's office.

The money will go to the Supporting Science Students through Scholarships, Academic and Social Activities and Reflective Journaling project, a program designed to address the ever-increasing need in Illinois and surrounding areas for highly qualified professionals in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).

This includes a structured research study that will be used to determine the impact of course specific tutoring, mentoring and reflective journaling among students in STEM courses.

"I am proud to announce that this award for Joliet Junior College will go towards enhancing STEM education for students," said Foster in the press release.

"For America, to remain competitive in a global economy, that is increasingly STEM-based, we must continue to invest in expanding opportunities for students to explore STEM subjects in the classroom and the career paths that follow," he said. "Joliet Junior College is laying the foundation for our country to continue its leadership in science and innovation."