UALR is seeking applications for the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program, which offers stipends for low-income, first generation, or underrepresented minorities with a strong desire to attend graduate school.

The program offers a $2,800 stipend, opportunities to conduct research with a faculty mentor and attend research conferences, and visit graduate schools.

The program was inspired by Dr. Ronald E. McNair, a physicist and America’s second black astronaut in space who died in the 1986 Challenger explosion.

Congress established the McNair Scholars program to commemorate his lifetime of accomplishment by encouraging students from low-income and first generation backgrounds,  and other underrepresented minorities to enroll in graduate studies.

To be eligible, students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.75. Junior or senior undergraduates may apply. Students are selected based on their greatest potential for pursuing doctoral studies.

For more information on how to apply, visit the McNair Scholars Program site or contact Gwendolyn C. Middleton, assistant director of the UALR McNair Program, at 501.569.8747. Deadline to apply is Jan. 16, 2009.