UGI Utilities, Inc. has made a gift of $2,500 to Penn State Wilkes-Barre in support of the summer Women in Sciences and Engineering (WISE) program. The three-day program has been held at Penn State Wilkes-Barre since 2010.
Those who participate in this program are young women in the middle grades (six to eight) from all walks of life who have an interest in exploring science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers. The WISE program is unique to the community in that it offers an opportunity for a younger group of girls to explore the career possibilities available in STEM areas. Additionally, the WISE program allows the young women to develop self-esteem and enhance their technical abilities through interactive learning activities outside of the traditionally male-dominated classroom. Faculty and staff provide guidance and career counseling in an effort to empower the young women to enroll in STEM-related high school programming, and ultimately STEM careers.
The gift from UGI Utilities, Inc. will enable Penn State Wilkes-Barre to offer scholarships to those that do not have the financial means to enroll in the WISE program, purchase materials/curriculum and supplies, ensure interactive learning, cover transportation costs and provide a daily lunch for all attendees.
Since 2014, Penn State Wilkes-Barre has been approved as an Educational Improvement Organization (EIO) under the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). The designation allows businesses such as UGI Utilities, Inc. to contribute to the school to support youth programs at Penn State Wilkes-Barre deemed to be “innovative educational programs” under the law and to be considered for Educational Improvement Tax Credits from the state.
Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides a world-renowned university in a smaller, more intimate setting. Dedicated staff and teachers have helped students of all ages since the campus’ inception in 1916 and continue to provide excellent education and support. Penn State Wilkes-Barre boasts nine Bachelor’s degrees, four Associate’s degrees, and the ability to start one of over 160 degrees at Penn State Wilkes-Barre and continue at another campus. Penn State is committed to equal opportunity and diversity in both its employees and students.
Gifts from Penn State's alumni and friends have been essential to the success of the University's historic land-grant mission to serve the public good. To fulfill that mission for a new era of rapid change and global connections, the University has begun "A Greater Penn State for 21st Century Excellence," a fast-paced campaign focused on the three key imperatives of a public university: Private support will keep the doors to higher education open to hardworking students regardless of financial well-being; create transformative experiences that go beyond the classroom; and impact the world by fueling discovery, innovation and entrepreneurship. To learn more, visit greaterpennstate.psu.edu