Funds will provide full-tuition scholarships targeted to MC²STEM High School and CMSD graduates with STEM majors

In recognition of Cleveland State University's 50th Anniversary celebration, executives from GE committed $500,000 towards full-tuition scholarships targeted for students pursuing a Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) major at CSU.

The gift will be used towards five full-tuition scholarships each year for 10 years and serves as an extension of an existing relationship the organizations share in support of Cleveland Metropolitan School District and its MC²STEM High School. Students at MC²STEM spend 10^th grade at GE Lighting's Nela Park campus before moving to CSU's campus to complete 11^th and 12^th grades.

“We are so excited and proud to announce our commitment to Cleveland State University through the GE Scholars Program,” said Maryrose Sylvester, President & CEO of East Cleveland-based GE Lighting. “We are looking forward to CSU continuing to provide the diverse talent pipeline that GE needs to succeed in the 21^st century.”

CSU has a strong alumni connection to the company in Sylvester, as well as Russell Stokes, Senior Vice President & CEO of GE Transportation, located in Chicago, Ill., and Lloyd Trotter, Former Vice Chairman of GE and President of the Industrial Business units of GE. In addition, more than 75 CSU graduates currently work at GE Lighting.

“STEM education is the key to drive future innovation in our global economy,” said Stokes. We expect that some of the next great inventors will be the students right here in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and we want to give them every opportunity to reach their potential by establishing the GE Scholars program at Cleveland State University."

"For decades GE employees and executive team members have served as tutors, role models and mentors for youth in Northeast Ohio,” said Trotter. "Today's gift to CSU demonstrates GE's commitment to supporting the educational development of the aspiring STEM professionals of the next generation."

The scholarship award will be open to sophomores, juniors and seniors with preference given to graduates of MC²STEM, as well as to CMSD graduates in STEM major programs. Renewal preference will be given to students who complete an internship or co-op with GE.

"We are very appreciative of GE's investment in our students. GE Scholars will benefit greatly from the financial support as they receive invaluable connections to career opportunities and mentors in high demand fields," said CSU President Ronald M. Berkman.

Students interested in learning more or applying can find scholarship information with CSU's Office of Financial Aid.