New center to educate, train and grow workforce that fuels today’s innovation economy

In response to an increased demand for talented professionals in the science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medical and K-12 teaching fields, CSU Interim Provost Geoffrey S. Mearns today announced the establishment of the Cleveland State University Center for STEMM Education. The Center will serve as a hub for more than 30 science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine and teacher preparation (STEMM) activities in the College of Science, Fenn College of Engineering and the College of Education and Human Services.

“This new initiative will provide students in emerging STEMM disciplines with the skills needed to fill high quality positions in the marketplace and infuse area businesses with the talent they need to succeed,” said Mearns. “This is yet another forward step in the growth and evolution of our university-wide mission to emphasize the applied research, education and service that are vital to economic growth in our community.”

In its initial phase, the CSU Center for STEMM Education will:

• Coordinate university roles and commitments with external partners
• Develop inter-college proposal teams to support internships/coops; outreach activities to K-12 schools; summer programs; undergraduate curricular reform; faculty professional development; and teacher professional development
• Encourage enhanced faculty participation in STEMM education activities
• Develop inter-college research teams focused on developing strong research and publication agendas that inform preparation of STEMM educators

A three-person management team comprised of David W. Ball (Director, Professor, Chemistry), Stephen Duffy (Co-Director, Chair and Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering and Director of the University Transportation Center), and Joanne Goodell (Co-Director, Associate Professor, Teacher Education) will lead the Center’s efforts.

An advisory committee that includes important constituents such as deans, higher education faculty, teachers, students, and community-based organizations is also being convened.

For more information, please contact David Ball at 216.687.2456 or d.ball@csuohio.edu.

About Cleveland State University

Founded in 1964, Cleveland State University is a public research institution that provides a dynamic setting for engaged learning. With an enrollment of more than 16,000 students, 8 colleges and more than 250 academic programs, CSU provides a hands-on learning environment that connects students, ideas and real-world experience.

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