Hearst Foundation Gives TSRI $150,000 to Endow Summer Internships
By Mika Ono
The William Randolph Hearst Foundation has given $150,000
to endow summer internships in The Scripps Research Institute's
(TSRI) Science Outreach Program. The gift will ensure that
three, possibly four, high school students have the opportunity
to work in a TSRI lab every summer in perpetuity. The award
was the culmination of over 10 years of communication between
the Hearst Foundation and the TSRI Development Office.
"This generous endowment supports TSRI in its commitment
to reaching out to future generations of scientists," says
Jeffery Kelly, vice president for academic affairs and dean
of graduate studies. "We are deeply grateful to the Hearst
Foundation for its gift."
Robin Goldsmith, vice president of communications and director
of the Science Outreach Program, adds: "The intensive, basic
hands-on research experience that the summer internship provides
is invaluable to these young people. It gives them an insight
into science and the scientific process that is difficult
to achieve outside the laboratory."
TSRI's Science Outreach Program was started 12 years ago
to promote and improve science literacy, enhance science teachers'
professional development, and inspire students to pursue careers
in the life sciences. In recognition of the shift towards
a multiracial, multiethnic society, TSRI encourages students
and teachers from gender and ethnic groups traditionally underrepresented
in the sciences to attend its programs.
Since its inception, over 200 high school students, 49 science
teachers, and 71 undergraduates have participated in the Science
Outreach Program, which has been recognized by the Greater
San Diego Industry-Education Council for providing a model
for collaboration between K-12 schools and institutions of
advanced learning. The program's newest component, The Science
Partnership Scholars Program (supported by an endowment from
the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations), provides an opportunity
for teachers to attend a six-week session of tutorials at
TSRI and includes a laboratory kit to bring back to the classroom.
The Hearst Foundation, based in New York and San Francisco,
was founded by philanthropist William Randolph Hearst in 1948.
The foundation funds programs for underrepresented, low-income,
and minority populations, focusing on the areas of education,
health, culture, and social services.
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TSRI's Science Outreach Program has
provided the opportunity for many high school students, teachers,
and undergraduates to learn about science and the scientific
process.
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