May 13, 2003
INFORMATION: Sue Bozman or John McElwain, (661) 362-3415 or 3494
Science Achievement Program Receives $100,000 Hewlett-Packard Grant
The College of the Canyons Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) Program has received an equipment grant worth more than $100,000 from Hewlett-Packard Co. The equipment is a complete HP wireless mobile classroom consisting of 30 wireless notebook computers, an OfficeJet all-in-one color printer/copier/scanner/fax, a digital projector and digital camera, housed in a special motorized cart.
The award is part of HP’s 2003 Community College Pre-Engineering and Computer Science Grant, an initiative aimed at increasing the number of underrepresented students pursuing high-tech careers.
The MESA Program at COC is part of a statewide network of programs that help educationally disadvantaged students majoring in math, engineering and the sciences.
The HP technology will be used to enrich the experience of MESA students in engineering, mathematics and other technical courses at COC. It is hoped that students in the program will go on to become computer engineers and scientists.
“Everyone at MESA is excited about the award,” said Susan Crowther, COC’s MESA program director. “Our students and our faculty advisors are thrilled about how this equipment will enhance the quality of learning experiences for our students.” MESA’s primary goal is to prepare students for university transfer in the science, math and technical fields. Students in the program participate in a variety of rigorous academic activities and support services that include: academic excellence workshops, calculator and book-loan programs, counseling and academic advisement, scholarship assistance, professional development workshops, guest speakers and field trips to universities and industry sites.
HP has a long history of investing in successful programs like MESA that help low-income, minority and first-generation college students achieve academic success and become prepared for transfer to universities as computer science or computer engineering majors.
“We are so pleased that HP offers this program and that the company allows community college programs across the nation to compete for this type of equipment grant,” said Crowther. “It will make a huge difference in the lives and the futures of very deserving students across the state.”
The equipment is scheduled to arrive in late May or early June. The MESA staff will have a chance to experiment with the technology before using it in classes in the fall.
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