FLORENCE – The LIONS Bridge Program is an initiative aimed at increasing diversity in engineering at the University of North Alabama. Thanks to a National Science Foundation grant, the program will launch next summer.

“The primary objective of the LIONS Bridge Program is to facilitate a supportive platform for incoming engineering and engineering technology students, especially those from historically excluded groups,” said Dr. Ravi Gollapalli, professor of engineering technology and co-organizer for the grant. “The grant supports tutoring, mentoring from peers, faculty, and industry professionals, as well as field trips and community service opportunities.

“We firmly hope and believe this bridge program will significantly enhance the recruitment and retention of underrepresented students in engineering education.”

The two-year program grant is intended to recruit and provide outreach for engineering and engineering technology students.

The program is cohort-based and will welcome 10 students each summer. It aligns with the NSF’s goals of the professional formation of engineers by supporting research and fostering a more diverse engineering workforce.

Organizers say these efforts will help prepare students as they navigate their engineering studies. By addressing the need for diversity in engineering education, this project will work to ensure that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed.

With tailored support and a welcoming environment, the program will improve recruitment and retention rates of underrepresented students in engineering.

Additional information is available at this link.