College Wins Federal Grant from U.S. Department of Education
8/26/2014
$2.3 Million in Funding over Five Years Will Enhance Academic Offerings for Hispanic Students
Riverdale, N.Y. – The University of Mount Saint Vincent was awarded a Developing Hispanic Serving Institutions federal grant totaling up to $2.3 million from the U.S. Department of Education. The grant assists institutions to develop and increase their academic offerings and programs for Hispanic students. The funding will be distributed over a five year grant period, with the first year totaling $458,473.
“Nationally, too many Hispanic students who enter college are leaving before they reach their second year—often due to their being underprepared or being insufficiently connected to opportunities like internships, career services, support programs, or advising,” says Dr. Charles L. Flynn, Jr., president of the University of Mount Saint Vincent. “At the Mount, we offer supportive services tailored to meet the needs of first generation students and low-income Hispanic students. The results are impressive. The College boasts a graduation rate for Hispanic students that puts us among the nation’s top ten Hispanic-serving colleges, and has the highest graduation rate in the country for Hispanic students majoring in the sciences. But we can do better. We intend to capitalize on that success with the aid of this new federal grant by further strengthening our programs and services for all students including, of course, Hispanic students.”
The $458,473 grant was announced by Congressman Eliot Engel on August 25, 2014. “The University of Mount Saint Vincent is a true melting pot, and I have long been impressed by their commitment to serve the needs of each student who walks through their doors,” said Congressman Engel. “Hispanics are one of the fastest-growing groups in the United States, and the University of Mount Saint Vincent is working to ensure that Hispanic students are not only able to succeed, but also to thrive. They have taken an innovative approach to educating our future leaders, and this federal grant will ensure that they continue to do so.”
To be eligible for the grant, at least 25% of an institutions enrollment must be Hispanic. The Mount’s full time undergraduate population is currently 35% Hispanic.
The College will use the funding to improve retention and further develop educational opportunities, programs, and success among students.
About the University of Mount Saint Vincent
Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional fields of study on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Committed to the education of the whole person, and enriched by the unparalleled cultural, educational and career opportunities of New York City, the College equips students with the knowledge, skills and experiences necessary for lives of achievement, professional accomplishment and leadership in the 21st century.