UC, Hughes High School team for summer bridge STEM program

The University of Cincinnati is empowering and educating students at Hughes High School through a bridge program focused on college and career readiness in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) field. 

The program, known as the UC Scholars Academy, allows Hughes juniors and seniors to experience three weeks of college immersion classes, hands-on activities, field trips and speakers that will better prepare them for STEM careers and post-high school life. The hope is that the bridge program can serve as a national best practice model, says Kathie Maynard, director of community partnerships in UC’s College of Education, Criminal Justice & Human Services and a leader in the Greater Cincinnati STEM Collaborative.

The program began with an application process for students who were interested, which lead to an essay and panel interview. Of the 30 who applied this year, 12 were chosen.

UC President Santa Ono and UC Provost Beverly Davenport have each committed $100,000 to help the program flourish. The program plans to grow and reach into lower grades, garnering attention from students just starting high school.
 
“We’re bridging not only the gap to college but showing them where that leads on the other side,” Maynard says. “If we can make a difference in these juniors’ and seniors’ lives, then we can extend into lower grades.”

Do Good:

• Contact Kathie Maynard to find out how you can support the UC Scholars Academy.

• Become a friend of Hughes High School on Facebook. 

• Advocate for more mentoring/learning connections among businesses, community and education.