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Westminster College Science and Technology Programs Secure $3 Million in Pennsylvania State Funding

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Posted on Friday, September 30, 2016

State Senator Elder Vogel, State Representative Parke Wentling, and Westminster College President Dr. Kathy Brittain Richardson today announced that $3 million in state funding has been secured for a major expansion of the college’s Science and Technology programs.

The funding, provided through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), will significantly support the college’s expansion of science facilities.

The entire project— estimated to be a $15-$25 million undertaking—is part of Westminster’s commitment to refocusing its academic program on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

“This is fantastic news for Westminster College, prospective students, and our entire area. STEM careers are essential to the economic future of Western Pennsylvania,” Senator Vogel said. “This funding will help ensure that Westminster College remains a national leader in higher education, and I’m proud to have played a role in securing it.”

“Westminster College has been among the colleges leading the charge in bringing STEM disciplines to students. With STEM-related jobs on the rise, students are seeking out colleges that can deliver degrees that will earn them good-paying jobs,” Wentling said. “This grant will aid Westminster’s mission of creating tomorrow’s workers, who will be leading contributors to Pennsylvania’s economy.”

“We are grateful to Senator Vogel and Representative Wentling for this grant assisting in our efforts to expand our science facilities,” said President Richardson. “We appreciate them and many others who championed the cause on behalf of Westminster College and the students and region we serve. Westminster College has a very strong national reputation, particularly as it relates to our STEM programs that are grounded in the liberal arts. This grant will help us continue the progress that is enabling our facilities to reach the caliber of our exceptional faculty and students.”

RACP is a commonwealth grant program administered by the Office of the Budget for the acquisition and construction of regional economic, cultural, civic, recreational, and historical improvement projects.