(Manchester, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), the lead Democrat on the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations subcommittee which funds the National Science Foundation (NSF), announced with U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) that the NSF has awarded the University of New Hampshire (UNH) $1,999,572 for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. Specifically, this funding would be used to support a new, innovative UNH project that aims to strengthen teaching curriculums for STEM subjects. These new curriculums would better educate students on core skills, such as analyzing visual learning materials like graphs and knowledge of fundamental mathematical concepts like ratios and proportions, allowing students to acquire a more integrated view of science that will boost their understanding and educational success.

“There’s an ever-increasing demand for workers who are skilled in STEM in today’s economy,” said Senator Shaheen. “That’s why I’m very excited to see UNH receive these federal dollars for this innovative project to help students better understand core STEM concepts and accelerate their learning. As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep fighting for federal funding like this that supports our students and invests in the future of our workforce.”

“Too often, first- or second-year college students enroll in math and science heavy courses, but after a discouraging test score, decide that the STEM fields are just not for them,” Senator Hassan said. “This federal grant to the University of New Hampshire will help to change that narrative by strengthening curriculum and teaching methods so that more students can succeed in their STEM classes. I will continue working to support grant programs that expand opportunity for Granite Staters and help provide our business community with the workforce that they need to thrive.”

“Science, technology, engineering and mathematics jobs are in high demand in our 21^st century economy, and it is imperative that we invest in STEM education,” said Congresswoman Kuster. “This funding will bolster the STEM curriculum at UNH by focusing on core skills that will prepare our future workforce for success in STEM careers and improving the diversity of our students. I will continue working to ensure all Granite Staters have the opportunities, tools and support they need to succeed.”

“Investment in our state’s STEM education will help support the next generation of problem solvers and critical thinkers,” said Congressman Pappas. “I am pleased that UNH received these federal dollars to continue growing its programing that will better prepare our students for tomorrow’s economy.”

###