GSSM Receives $5,525 Grant From Monsanto Fund to Support Technology for Biology and Chemistry Labs

October 7, 2009

The S.C. Governor's School for Science and Mathematics (GSSM) recently received a $5,525 grant from the Monsanto Fund, a private foundation and the philanthropic arm of Monsanto Company, to fund laptops for biology and chemistry labs.

GSSM is a two-year, public, residential high school in Hartsville, S.C., specializing in the advanced study of science and mathematics. The Monsanto grant will enhance advanced studies in biology and chemistry, both for the school's residential educational program and for its annual outreach camps offered through the Summer Science Program (SSP).

"It is especially gratifying when a company at the leading edge of high technology like Monsanto recognizes GSSM as worthy of one of their grants for high-tech equipment.  Our fine students will make good use of it," said Murray Brockman, GSSM president.

GSSM celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2008–09, having graduated nearly 1,200 alumni from every county in South Carolina. Many are now leaders in such critical fields as engineering, medicine, education, law, science, technology, research and business. Its residential program serves 128 high school juniors and seniors a year with a concentrated study of science and math, alongside rigorous courses in the humanities, to prepare graduates to excel as leaders in the state's 21st-century economy.

Newsweek and The Washington Post have ranked GSSM among the Top 20 "public elite" high schools in the country. 


"Monsanto is strongly committed to supporting the communities where our business operates, and the Hartsville, SC, cotton research site is proud to have sponsored the SC Governor's School for Science and Mathematics funding proposal," said Dawn Fraser, Cotton Breeder/Site Manager at the Hartsville Site.


"The Monsanto Fund is a strong advocate of science education and promoting scientific interest among students. We believe in the value created through using new technologies in the classroom and in promoting science in our schools."