The United States Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Environmental Management (EM) has awarded the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie a $1.9 million grant to support science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education in the Salkehatchie region. This funding will be used to launch a STEM bus that will travel throughout the area, allowing students to explore various STEM concepts, including clean energy solutions.  The program aims to inspire students to pursue STEM careers and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

“We are thrilled to receive this significant grant from the DOE,” said Dr. April Cone, dean of USC Salkehatchie. “This investment will have a profound impact on our community by providing students with the opportunity to employ creativity and further develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. We believe that STEM education is essential for preparing our young people for the future.”

Tracy Beach, the STEM program manager for USC Salkehatchie, is eager to kick off the program.

"We are excited for this opportunity to increase interest in STEM subjects, environmental issues and clean energy," Beach said.

In the 2023-24 academic year, USC Salkehatchie's STEM program reached 1,200 K-12 students monthly through various community outreach efforts, including afterschool programs and summer camps. Additionally, the program supports educators by providing STEM bags and access to STEM-related equipment, as well as offering thousands in scholarships and internships each year.

The grant is part of the DOE’s efforts to reinvest in disadvantaged communities that have been impacted by decades of nuclear defense and research missions. By supporting STEM education, the DOE hopes to strengthen relationships with these communities and promote economic revitalization.