Empowering Future Innovators: The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI)
The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) is a groundbreaking program aimed at increasing the representation of underrepresented professionals in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Founded by prominent organizations including the American Chemistry Council (ACC), the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), Chemours, and the HBCU Week Foundation, FOSSI offers a comprehensive package that goes beyond financial support, integrating scholarships, internships, leadership development, and mentoring opportunities.
Eligibility and Preferred Majors
- Student Categories: FOSSI is available to students pursuing preferred STEM degrees at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
- Preferred Majors: These include Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, Computer Science, Material Science, Sustainability, Environmental Science, Agriculture Science, Physics, Biology, and more.
- Exclusions: The program is not for students interested in nursing, medicine, psychology, social sciences, and other non-STEM fields.
Scholarship Details
- Amount: FOSSI provides $10,000 per year for four years, aiding in covering tuition and related expenses.
- Use of Funds: The scholarship can be used for tuition and university-provided room and board.
Application Requirements
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be entering their freshman year at an HBCU in a relevant STEM field.
- Financial Need: Candidates must demonstrate financial need.
- Application Submission: Applications must be completed and submitted electronically, with options for mail submissions in certain cases.
Annual Review and Requirements
- Academic Performance: Scholarship continuation is contingent upon maintaining a 2.5 out of 4.0 GPA in a full-time course of STEM study at an HBCU.
- Field of Study: Changing to a non-STEM field or transferring to a non-HBCU may affect eligibility.
Selection Process
- Review by HBCU Week Foundation: The HBCU Week Foundation, as the scholarship administrator, leads the application review process.
- Criteria: Academic achievements, STEM major, financial need, career aspirations relevance, and community involvement are key factors.
- Notification: Recipients are informed via phone call, email, and official letter.
Additional Opportunities
FOSSI scholars are connected to internships and leadership development at participating companies, providing a pathway to careers in the chemical industry and related fields.
Contact and More Information
For queries about eligibility or further details, prospective applicants can reach out to scholarship@HBCUWeek.org. For more information, visit the official website of FOSSI: Future of STEM Scholars Initiative.
