York University Awarded $3 Million Federal Grant to Strengthen STEM Education and Career Pathways
York University has been awarded a $3 million five-year federal grant to support Panther TRACKS — Transforming Research, Analysis and Career Knowledge through STEM, a new initiative that will transform science laboratories and strengthen pathways from the classroom to careers. The award comes through the Title III, Part A Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP), a federal program administered through the U.S. Department of Education.
Approximately $1.9 million of the $3 million award is earmarked for the transformation of science facilities in Dean Sack Hall, where biology, chemistry and physics laboratories will receive significant upgrades. Year one improvements will prioritize installation of energy-efficient HVAC zoning and controls, replacement of inefficient windows, improved lighting and new instructional technology.
President Timothy Westbrook notes that this grant will provide funding for much needed improvements to the STEM programs of York University. Westbrook said, “We are excited about the opportunity afforded to York University through this Title III, SIP, award. As a university, we place a high priority on graduating students prepared for the work force, and STEM industries are a significant part of the economy and will be for years to come. This grant will help York University provide innovative educational experiences to prepare our students for competitive careers.”
The Panther TRACKS initiative will also expand York University’s STEM curriculum, providing seed funding for new programming in artificial intelligence literacy and nutrition, and expanded access to STEM research resources through the Academic Resource Center at Levitt Library.
The grant comes during a period of significant growth for York University. University enrollment increased more than 40% between 2015 and 2025, and business and science programs now account for a substantial portion of undergraduate majors. Panther TRACKS will help ensure that the university’s academic infrastructure and student-support systems continue to grow alongside its enrollment and evolving academic programs.
The Title III Strengthening Institutions Program (SIP), established under the Higher Education Act of 1965, is a highly competitive federal grant opportunity designed to help eligible institutions of higher education improve academic quality, institutional management and fiscal stability. Over York University's proposed five-year project period, federal funding is anticipated to cover 94.8% of total project costs ($3 million), with the remaining 5.2% ($163,783) contributed by non-governmental sources. For the first year, the University has been awarded $1,836,570 in federal funding, representing 98.9% of first year project costs, with the remaining 1.1% ($20,328) provided through institutional contributions.
This new award marks the third Title III Strengthening Institutions Program grant in York University’s history. A $1.8 million award in 2009 funded significant improvements in instructional technology, classrooms, accessibility and student support services. A subsequent $2.25 million award in 2018 supported the transformation of the traditional Levitt Library into a modern academic resource center, expanding digital resources, strengthening academic support services, and creating collaborative learning spaces.
Founded in 1890, York University is a private, Christian liberal arts university located in York, Nebraska. Affiliated with Churches of Christ, the university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a supportive, close-knit learning environment that integrates academic excellence, faith and service. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, York University is committed to transforming lives through Christ-centered education and equipping students for lifelong service to God, family and society. Learn more at www.york.edu.