The project title is “Information Technology Training and Academic Enhancement Program for Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Undergraduate Students.” The goal of this project is to recruit financially disadvantaged students, to retain these students, and enhance the educational experience of these students in the technology disciplines. Specific objectives are: (1) Recruit qualified students through an active K-12 educational outreach program, including math and science fairs, competitions, and in-school math and science laboratories, (2) Retain these students through the incorporation of student support and mentoring programs, (3) Enhance the educational experience of these students through workshops/seminars, industrial outreach, and community service opportunities, (4) Increase the number of undergraduates, including women and minorities in the above-mentioned disciplines, and (5) Promote intercultural participation among non-minority and minority students.

The project will consist of three activities: (1) mandatory computer and information technology training (average 2 hrs/wk), (2) mandatory academic enhancement activities (average 1 hr/wk), and (3) optional educational and industrial outreach programs (up to 3 hrs/wk). Under the supervision of the PI (Chair of Computer Science), CSEMS Scholars will receive additional information technology training through various workshops and training courses. The Office of Strategic Initiatives and the Center for Academic Success, Co-PIs, and several outstanding LSU faculty members will provide active mentoring and academic assistance for the CSEMS Scholars to maximize their chances for academic success.

In brief, this project will expand the learning community and provide an exciting way to enhance students’ academic, social and personal success at LSU and in their future endeavors.

• Dr. S. Sitharama Iyengar
• Coretta Douglas
• Dr. Evangelos Triantaphyllou
• Dr. Su-Seng Pang (ME)
• Dr. Frank M. Neubrander (Math)
• Dr. Eyassu Woldesenbet (ME)
• Dr. Saundra McGuire (Chemistry)
• Connie Stelly, M.Ed, Office of Strategic Initiatives