Lieberman, Blumenthal, DeLauro Announce $250,000 To Help Disadvantaged Students In Connecticut Pursue Education After High School

(Hartford, Conn.) –  Today, U.S. Senators Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) announced $250,000 in federal funding for Wesleyan University to provide key support to Connecticut students from disadvantaged backgrounds who are preparing to enter college or pursue higher education opportunities. This grant, which will be allocated next year, was awarded through the U.S. Department of Education's Upward Bound Math and Science Program, which helps students who are low-income, or have a high risk of academic failure, prepare for education beyond high school. The program emphasizes math and science education by supporting programs throughout the country that provide students with intensive math and science study and tutoring.

“I enthusiastically congratulate Wesleyan University on this grant that will provide so many key opportunities to students,” said Lieberman. “A strong foundation in math and science are essential in both the schoolroom and the workforce, and I look forward to the many success stories from students who will benefit from this grant.”

Blumenthal said, “This grant will support students from all backgrounds as they pursue their dream of higher education – providing them with academic support, especially in math and science, which are crucial disciplines for America’s future and building our economy. I applaud Wesleyan’s leadership in helping Connecticut’s students achieve their goals, and preparing them for a brighter future.”

“By giving young people the tools they need to further their education and advance in an increasingly competitive world, this program gives these students an opportunity to succeed,” said DeLauro.  “With proven results in the last 40 years, Upward Bound and other critical programs have allowed countless students nationwide and here in Middletown to attend college when they might not have otherwise had the opportunity.”