Congressman Gonzalez Announces $4,200,000 from the National Science Foundation to Support Minority Communities Enrollment at UTRGV

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (TX-15) announced a grant of $4,200,000 for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) from the National Science Foundation (NSF).  The proposed Partnership for Research and Education and Materials (PREM) program will be between UTRGV and the University of Minnesota (UMN) Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) and will focus on retention and degree attainment of underrepresented minority undergraduates.

The full PREM program will allocate more than $30,000,000 through a six-year period for the purpose of increasing diversity in education, research and the workplace. Underserved communities will be provided with materials to expand enrollment and increase retention in higher education institutions.

“Investments in our underrepresented youth are crucial for the continued prosperity of our community and our nation,” said Congressman Gonzalez. “I am proud to bring this funding to the 15th District of Texas and help our students pursue meaningful paths as they embark on the next step in their careers. Diversity in schools, research, and employment helps bring alternative perspectives and new ideas, and I look forward to seeing the great things those at UTRGV will accomplish.” 

 “We are so appreciative of the NSF and Congressman Gonzalez for their continued support and for believing in our mission. This grant will equip our UTRGV students with the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to thrive in their higher education journey and career aspirations,” said UTRGV President Guy Bailey.

More information on the grant can be found here.

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