Nucor Steel Awards S. C. Governor's School for Science and Mathematics $9,000 Grant for Scientific Research

April 17, 2009

The South Carolina Governor's School for Science and Mathematics (GSSM) has been awarded a $9,000 grant from Nucor Steel, the largest bar producer in the Southeast, to fund scientific research internships for three of its students.

The Summer Program for Research Interns (SPRI) --- a graduation requirement for GSSM's rising seniors --- is a unique, hands-on educational opportunity and capstone experience. Nearly 70 students spend six weeks in corporate research and development labs, research universities and hospital cancer centers across the state under the direct supervision of established scientists. During the internship, students conduct research on a college graduate level in fields in which they have a specific interest such as cancer research, biomedical experiments or computer science.

"We at Nucor Steel applaud GSSM on providing students with advanced research at the high school level and recognize that these opportunities --- so early on --- bode well for the futures of the students and the future of the Palmetto State," said Matt Manelli, Nucor Steel controller.

"These young people are South Carolina's next generation of scientists, researchers and engineers. Their education today is invaluable to our businesses tomorrow."

GSSM, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, serves a high-achieving segment of the state's high school juniors and seniors who are passionate about science, mathematics and technology and who are motivated to increase their knowledge in these subjects. One of only 14 public, residential high schools in the country that specialize in science and mathematics, GSSM's SPRI initiative is just one example of the early college experience available to its students.

"It is increasingly clear, as our state plays host to events like the recent National Hydrogen Association Conference, that the unique, on-the-frontlines research experience we give students is absolutely crucial to preparing them for the ever-evolving scientific landscape," said Dr. Murray Brockman, GSSM president.

"Thanks to the support and generosity we receive for SPRI from progressive companies like Nucor Steel, we can continue our quest to inspire the minds of the young scientists and innovators who will no doubt be a part of the national energy conversation in the future."

With research partnerships that include Clemson University, The Medical University of South Carolina and the University of South Carolina, the average cost for SPRI per student is $3,000 with most students residing in university housing. Since SPRI's inception in 1991, more than 1,500 students from South Carolina have participated.