The Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) and the National Council on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) emphasize the transformative impact of undergraduate research.
- Enhanced Learning: Students gain deeper insights through close mentoring relationships with faculty.
- Higher Retention and Graduation Rates: Programs that include diverse backgrounds see increased retention and graduation rates.
- Graduate Education and Career Preparation: Participation boosts enrollment in graduate programs and equips students with essential career skills.
- Skill Development: Students develop critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving abilities, and intellectual independence.
- Research Methodology: Participants gain a solid understanding of research methodologies.
- Innovation Culture: Undergraduate research fosters an innovation-oriented mindset.
The GRO-MECS program partners undergraduate students with a faculty research mentor for interesting, hands-on research experiences. By securing funding for summer stipends and essential supplies, GRO-MECS will enable students to engage in meaningful research projects, enhancing their learning and preparing them for successful careers or further academic pursuits.
— Gonzaga Strategic Plan, Commitment 2, Goal 6
The GRO-MECS program was inspired by the proven success of the Gonzaga Science Research Program (GSRP), which has significantly increased student and faculty research opportunities in the natural sciences over the last 25 years. With a goal to build a $5 million endowment, GRO-MECS seeks to support over 20 faculty and 40 students annually. This initiative aligns with Gonzaga's mission to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and intellectual independence, ensuring that both students and faculty can contribute to innovative research that benefits the broader community and society.
— Gonzaga Strategic Plan, Commitment 2, Goal 5
By investing in GRO-MECS, we are not only enhancing the educational experience for our students but also empowering our faculty to pursue scholarly and creative endeavors. This program will help bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, fostering a culture of inquiry and discovery that is essential for the advancement of knowledge and the development of future leaders in engineering, computer science, and mathematics.
