“This funding is wonderful news for the UAPB community,” Ross said.  “Not only will the university be able to recruit more students to pursue a doctoral degree, some 25 students will be groomed for such degrees in their undergraduate studies, encouraging them to pursue their education to the highest level.  As the proud son of public school educators, I understand the value of a solid education, and I am supportive of any program that helps students reach their academic potential.”  

The McNair Program awards grants to institutions of higher education for projects designed to prepare participants for doctoral studies through involvement in research and other scholarly activities.  McNair participants are from disadvantaged backgrounds and have demonstrated strong academic potential.  Institutions work closely with these participants through their undergraduate requirements, encourage their entrance into graduate programs, and track their progress through to their successful completion of advanced degrees.  The goal of McNair is to increase the attainment of Ph.D. degrees by students from underrepresented segments of society.

Program services include: 
·         Research opportunities for participants who have completed their sophomore year of college.
·         Mentoring.
·         Seminars and other scholarly activities designed to prepare students for doctoral studies.
·         Summer internships.
·         Tutoring.
·         Academic counseling.
·         Assistance in obtaining student financial aid.
·         Assistance in completing applications for admission and financial aid for enrollment in graduate programs.