Colorado Mesa University and the University of Colorado Boulder Engineering Program are excited to announce a new partnership with Central High School (CHS) that will create expanded opportunities for students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
This collaboration establishes a clear pathway connecting high school learning at CHS to college-level STEM pathways. Through the partnership, qualified CHS students who meet program criteria will have access to guaranteed admission and scholarship opportunities to Colorado Mesa University and the CU Boulder Engineering Program, offering a direct route into postsecondary STEM education. Students in the Engineering Partnership Program at Colorado Mesa University can earn degrees in civil engineering, electrical and computer engineering, and mechanical engineering from CU Boulder while enjoying small class sizes, hands-on learning and faculty who put teaching first.
“Partnerships like this one with Central High School reflect CMU and D51's shared belief that talent should be nurtured here in the Grand Valley and opportunity should be cultivated. By working alongside our local high schools to strengthen pathways in STEM and engineering, we’re providing students with early access to the opportunity for a better life through education," said Colorado Mesa University President John Marshall.
Students graduating with the STEM endorsement will be guaranteed admission to CMU and the CMU/CU Boulder Engineering Partnership Program, as well as expanded merit scholarship requirements. Currently, incoming and current CMU students with a 3.2 GPA or higher are awarded a merit scholarship. Through this partnership, scholarship opportunities expand to students with a 3.0 GPA or higher, recognizing the increased rigor associated with STEM education.
“By building strong partnerships, our STEM Program bridges high school and college in a way that creates a cohesive, fluid experience for students as they move into the next level of STEM education,” said CHS STEM Coordinator Noelle Westcott.
The goal is to help students build confidence, skills and direction while still in high school, reducing barriers and increasing access to advanced and rigorous academic opportunities in higher education.
“This partnership is about opening doors and helping students see what’s possible,” CHS Principal Zeb Hayward added.
To celebrate the partnership, CHS Principal Hayward and STEM Coordinator Westcott, Mesa County Valley School District 51 (D51) Superintendent Brian Hill, President John Marshall and Director of CMU-CU Boulder Engineering Partnership Programs Nathan McNeill gathered to sign the Memorandum of Understanding for this partnership in front of students and staff in the Central High School gymnasium. Each member of leadership reiterated the importance to education at all levels in students’ journeys, encouraging them to believe in themselves and the opportunities ahead.
Learn more about the CMU/CU Boulder Engineering Partnership Program.