The Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, aimed at increasing math and science teachers in Western Kansas, continues to offer support through funding, mentorship, and networking. This year’s Midwest Annual Robert Noyce Conference, themed “Fostering STEM Futures: Resiliency and Assessment Practices,” was held in St. Louis, Missouri, in October. The event sought to strengthen and expand the partnerships established through prior Noyce grants.
Representing Fort Hays State University (FHSU) at the conference were faculty members Dr. Janet Stramel, Dr. Paul Adams, Dr. Bill Weber, Dr. Matthew Clay, Mr. Earl Legleiter, and Mrs. Ann Noble; students Kobi Shubert, Lili Shubert, Mollie Houtz, and Sarah Abernathy; and alumni Katie Flax and Kole Clarke. Dr. Jeff Sekavec from Colby Community College also attended.
Applications are open for the 2025 National Science Foundation (NSF) Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship, which provides $15,000 per year and is renewable for a second year. Dr. Stramel anticipates awarding six to seven scholarships.
Stramel noted a major shift from previous NSF grants: FHSU is now coordinating closely with community college partners, including Colby, Dodge City, Garden City, Seward County, and Barton County.
