Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia has announced a $2.6 million investment from the John P. and Anne Welsh McNulty Foundation to expand the university’s commitment to women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). 

The funding will enhance the existing John P. McNulty Scholars program so it reaches more women over the next seven years and invests more deeply in preparing and nurturing women’s leadership in STEM fields. Renamed the John P. McNulty Program for Leadership in Science and Mathematics, the initiative provides support for full- and partial-tuition scholarships as well as faculty and peer mentorship, research and leadership development opportunities, and community building. This fall, 36 women will participate as scholars and fellows, and the cohort is expected to nearly double over the next four years. 

“It’s not enough that women enter STEM fields, or even stay in STEM fields; women need to lead in STEM,” said McNulty Foundation co-founder and president Anne Welsh McNulty. “The talented cohorts of McNulty Scholars over the last decade inspired us to deepen the leadership dimension of the program and to increase our philanthropic support. This will enable more women than ever before to achieve their greatest potential and to change the world.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/FG Trade)