The Helios Education Foundation has invested 1.3 million dollars in a new plan called “Student Success – Responding to a National Imperative.” Helios and the University of Tampa have worked together to make this possible and hope to increase student success at the university.
The Helios Grant targets students who are studying mathematics, education, technology and science related disciplines. They are mainly full time students who are members of minority groups, from Florida and are usually the first ones in their families to attend college. These students need additional support, and this grant provides opportunities to them that they never thought possible. A freshman attending UT who is on the Helios Grant commented on how the grant has impacted her. “The grant provided me with a lot of different options for jobs that I was able to apply and interview for over the summer before starting,” said Heather Lopez, a first year science major. “That gave me assurance that help support myself more than what my parents could provide for me, and give me a structured schedule that would keep me from getting off task with school work.”
Preparing these students for college is not the only goal of the Helios Education Foundation. Paul Luna, the President of the Helios Educations Foundation, in a recent article regarding the Helios Grant, stated, “preparing students for the academic rigor of a college education is only part of the equation.”
A big part of this investment is making sure students stay in college and successfully complete their education. Since most of these students are the first in their families to attend college, they need the extra help and support to lead them in the right direction.
With increased graduation rates of the cohorts and student engagement in the college experience, the program will succeed. UT’s goal is to increase graduation rates up to 17 percent within the selected population. This program also aims to help the students with academics, interaction with the staff and supporting their campus. Heather Lopez commented on her interaction with the staff, “I can definitely say that the Helios grant allowed me to meet fellow students and faculty members. My fellow co-workers have been very supportive of me and all have become really great friends.” Students enjoy the exposure and as of now, there are 282 of them that are part of this selected group.
Many investments have been made over the last 15 years to support these students. UT is extremely committed to boosting this program to make this initial cohort the best it can be to give students as many options as possible.
The Helios Grant has made a huge impact and helped students like Heather become who they want to be. “I truly believe that if it was not for this grant, my employer, my co-workers and I would have been very lost here at UT.”
Kirby Jay can be reached at kirby.jay@spartans.ut.edu.