MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Alverno College has been awarded a six-year, $1.9 million grant from the National Science Foundation to recruit and retain talented, low-income students in science.

The program aims to expand the number of low-income women enrolled in Alverno’s STEM programs through innovative recruitment strategies involving community partners. Dr. Rebekah Klingler, project director for the grant, discussed the award in a Wednesday, Oct. 9 press release.

"It’s imperative that more women, and more diverse women, pursue careers in science," said Klinger.

The initiative aims to offer students cohort-building events, professional development, mentoring and undergraduate research opportunities to enhance retention and graduation rates.

It also seeks to increase the number of women entering STEM graduate programs and careers after earning their degrees.

More information about Alverno College can be found by clicking here.