The California State University (CSU) is now accepting applications for the recently launched Dr. Joan S. Bissell Scholarship. With the intention of increasing the number of STEM teachers in high-need schools, the scholarship will provide financial assistance for aspiring teachers to aid in their completion of teacher credentialing programs at the CSU.
At least 50 teacher candidates will be awarded $5,000 in the 2021-22 academic year. Students are encouraged to apply through their campus financial aid department website. Application deadlines vary by campus, with the earliest deadlines starting in March.
“This scholarship is so important now, as the chronic shortage of qualified mathematics and science teachers to serve the diverse students in our state only exacerbates systemic inequities based upon race and poverty," says Marquita Grenot-Scheyer, Ph.D., CSU assistant vice chancellor of Educator Preparation and Public School Programs. “This scholarship will support future educators committed to the principles of equity and excellence for all students."
The Dr. Joan S. Bissell Scholarship was established through a generous one-time lead gift by the S. D. Bechtel, Jr. Foundation and expanded through donations made by supporters and friends of Bissell.
The scholarship is created in memory of Dr. Joan S. Bissell, former director in the CSU's Department of Educator Preparation and Public School Programs, for her leadership and dedication in ensuring a diverse and high-quality educator workforce. During her 15 years of service at the CSU Chancellor's Office, Bissell supported systemwide initiatives and programs, including the Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership program, the Math and Science Teacher Initiative, the Integrated Teacher Education Programs and the New Generations of Educators Initiative.
The CSU's teacher preparation program is the largest in the state and among the largest in the nation, producing more than half of California's new teachers. The Dr. Joan S. Bissell Scholarship is one of many sources of financial support available for teacher candidates.
To learn more about how the CSU is preparing and supporting California's future teachers, counselors and leaders, visit the Educator Preparation and Public School Programs website.