The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) has been awarded a $3.4 million grant from NASA, aimed at enhancing STEM education and research in the state. This four-year funding will be managed by the Nevada Space Grant Consortium (NVSGC), facilitating connections between students, faculty, and NASA's mission while promoting workforce development.
The grant is intended to expand internships, research opportunities, and faculty development across all colleges and universities in Nevada. Amy J. Carvalho, Chair of the Board of Regents, stated that the award "strengthens Nevada’s efforts to grow a highly skilled STEM workforce and connect our students to NASA’s mission." She emphasized that these programs provide valuable experiences that open new opportunities in STEM fields.
Dr. Eric Wilcox, Project Director for NVSGC and Nevada NASA EPSCoR, highlighted the ongoing collaboration with NASA. He remarked that "NASA Space Grant is a vital element of achieving the STEM education and workforce development goals of NSHE, Nevada, and NASA." The program has historically supported hands-on experiences for numerous students across NSHE campuses and offered paid internships at NASA centers.
Chancellor Matt McNair expressed that "this grant empowers students and faculty across Nevada to tackle some of the most exciting challenges in space and STEM fields," reinforcing Nevada's leadership in STEM education.
The NVSGC is part of NASA’s National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program established by Congress in 1989. This nationwide initiative includes 52 state-based consortia designed to prepare students for careers in STEM fields while advancing research efforts nationally.
Incorporating all NSHE institutions, the program provides authentic educational opportunities related to NASA's work. It supports student internships, faculty research initiatives, and K-12 outreach activities that integrate NASA content into classrooms throughout Nevada.
For further details about the Nevada Space Grant Consortium, visit their website at https://nasa.epscorspo.nevada.edu/.