Oxnard College will receive a $2.5 million dollar grant for the areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematical education.

President Richard Duran is excited for his college to receive the money.

“We’ve worked very hard for this grant,” said Duran. “We’re about to get $4 million over the course of 2 years, so 
this is a big grant.”

Congresswoman Lois Capps announced that the U.S. Department of Education awarded the grant to Oxnard College Sept. 25. The grant was aimed at science, technology, engineering and mathematics aducation (STEM).

The grant was made as part of the Hispanic-Serving Institutions program, which was also enacted as part of the College Cost Reduction Act.

Capps was an early supporter of the reduction act, and voted for it last year, according to Harrison.

The grant is designed to increase the number of low-income students that could benefit from the advantages of degree in a STEM field.

According to Duran, preparations began for the grant last spring, with only $2,600 being reduced from the original amount asked for.

The grant will allow the college to establish significant program development, as well as enhance the current classes and programs that students would use to attain at STEM degree, according to Capps.

“This will allow us to establish new programs on campus,” said Duran.

Oxnard College will also be collaborating with California State Channel Islands and Santa Barbara to encourage students to complete baccalaureate degrees in a STEM field.

Harrison said they were excited to present the grant to the community college, especially considering Capps past as a nurse and experience with helping students.

 “She has tried to give students opportunities and the education they need,” said Harrison.
Dean of Career and Technical Education Carmen Guerrero is glad the college will receive the grant.

“This is a big deal for the college considering the budget crises,” said Guerrero. “This is wonderful news for our students, our community, and our college.”