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National science foundation logoThe NViSION program is a scholars/scholarship program that supports academically-talented STEM students. Students enrolled in the NViSION program at CT State Naugatuck Valley are supported financially, academically, professionally, and socially. Support includes providing scholarships for the first two years at Naugatuck Valley and access to a variety of STEM workshops, seminars, advising sessions, professional experiences, clubs, field trips, and tutoring services that are tailored specifically to the interests of the students in the program. The goal of the NViSION program is to increase the number of academically talented STEM students that enter the STEM workforce or continue their education at a Bachelor’s degree-granting institution.

This program is made possible through a generous grant from the National Science Foundation.

About the NViSION Program

Be a part of a unique scholars program for students pursuing a STEM education at NVCC. As an NViSION Scholar, you have the opportunity to develop an academic, professional, and social network of peers, STEM faculty, and STEM professionals.

What You'll Receive

Students accepted into the program receive:

  • $1000-$5000 per year for at least the first 2 years of their program
  • Free Summer Bridge Program first 3 weeks of August
  • Free tutoring
  • All-expense paid university tours and STEM field trips
  • STEM workshops, advising, and counseling
  • Opportunities for undergraduate research, internships, and/or job shadowing

Student Requirements

  • Students must have a GPA of 2.5 with noted accomplishments in STEM courses
  • Must be a US citizen, permanent resident, national, or refugee
  • Have demonstrated financial need as determined per FAFSA
  • Commit to enrolling full-time at CT State Naugatuck Valley in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics degree programs until completion of the degree and/or transfer to a 4-year college or university

Eligible Majors

  • Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, or Physics Transfer Ticket degree program
  • Biochemistry
  • Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Engineering Technology
  • Computer Information Systems Technology
  • Electronic Engineering Technology
  • Engineering Technology
  • Engineering Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology
  • Technology Studies
  • Automated Manufacturing Engineering Technology 

Program Expectations for NViSION Scholars

  • Students must be enrolled full-time in a STEM degree program
  • Students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Students must complete the FAFSA every year they are enrolled in the program and maintain their financial aid eligibility
  • Students are expected to participate in many activities over their two years in the program. See list below. 
Activities and Expected Participation
 Activity Type  Expected Participation Over Your 2 Years  Suggested Activities
Free Summer Bridge Program
  • 100% participation for the summer before your first year
  • Activities marked with a * are also expected the summer after your first year
  • Orientation of College
  • Transitional Math, English & Science Program
  • Field Trips
College Opportunities At least 2
  • In-person tour at four-year university
  • STEM Scholarship Workshop
  • STEM Transfer Fair
Job Placement At least 2
  • STEM Resume Workshop
  • Interviewing Skills for STEM Careers Workshop
  • How to find a STEMship
Professional Networking At least 2
  • Annual Women in Science Seminar
  • Annual Diversity in STEM Seminar
  • Overcoming Adversity Workshop
Community Engagement Actively participate in 1 for 2 consecutive semesters
  • STEM Club
  • STEM Competition Group
  • STEM Coach
Social Networking At least 1
  • STEM Fair
  • Bronx Zoo
  • New England Science & Sailing
Professional Opportunities At least 1, ideally after completing your first year
  • Attendance at a professional conference
  • STEM Internship (6 weeks or longer)
  • STEM Job Shadow (at least 20 hours)
  • STEM Research (6 weeks or longer)

    Apply to the NViSION Program

    The NViSION Program is not currently seeking applicants. Check back to see when the next application window opens.

    For application information email Dr. Rebecca Binney or call her at 203-596-2175.

    Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Applications will be accepted until all scholarships are distributed. 

    male instructor helps female student on machine

    Contact Us

    NVision Study Room–Ekstrom 401 (Waterbury Campus)

    Dr. Rebecca Stadel Binney, PI
    Professor of Biology
    Email: rebecca.binney@ctstate.edu 
    Phone: 203-596-2175
    Location: Ekstrom Hall E404

    Dr. Peter Angelastro, Co-PI
    Professor of Biology
    Email: peter.angelastro@ctstate.edu 
    Phone: 203-575-8185
    Location: Ekstrom Hall E521

    Dr. Kevin Ramer, Co-PI
    Professor of Math
    Email: kevin.ramer@ctstate.edu 
    Phone: 203-596-2152

    Dr. H. Justin Moore, Co-PI, Budget Compliance Officer
    Interim Dean of Academic Affairs, Associate Dean, STEM
    Email: hjustin.moore@ctstate.edu 

    Dr. Virginia Jewell
    NVisiON Coordinator

    Professor Carlos Plaza
    Associate Professor of Math, NViSION Advisor
    Email: carlos.plaza@ctstate.edu 
    Phone: 203-596-8785