Twelve U.S. universities will receive more than $25 million from the National Math and Science Initiative (NMSI) to help increase the number of graduates with enhanced math and science teaching skills. NMSI is supported primarily by a $125-million grant from Exxon Mobil Corp.
"As a company that employs 14,000 engineers and scientists, ExxonMobil knows how important it is to provide the best education and training possible for our nation's young people," said Rex Tillerson, chairman and chief executive.
NMSI is awarding the grants, of up to $2.4 million each, to the universities to start programs modeled after UTeach, a highly successful teacher preparation program at The University of Texas at Austin. "The UTeach program invests in the teachers of those who will become future leaders in key technology industries critical to the development and competitiveness of the United States," said Tom Luce, CEO of NMSI, a non-profit organization, created with support from ExxonMobil, to advance U.S. math and science education.
"As society demands more and more technological advancements, investments in those who teach in math, science, and technology become critical for continuous success and long-term growth," said Luce.
For more information on the UTeach Institute, visit their website at www.uteach-institute.org.
