The Louisiana Regional STEM Network is envisioned to be a system of STEM leadership entities strategically positioned across Louisiana, similar to the Regional Labor Market Areas (RLMAs) identified by the Louisiana Workforce Commission, whereby communities, parishes, multi-parish regions, and the State can achieve improved access to STEM education, participation, and advancement. This includes closing the opportunity gap for underrepresented and underserved populations to engage in Louisiana’s STEM workforce and economy. Existing and developing STEM activities will often span one or more STEM Regions. Regions will share information, work together, and be interconnected by coordination of resources which can also provide a gateway to other networks and initiatives. The Regional STEM Networks and Centers are connected with and serve the statewide LaSTEM Advisory Council.
REGIONAL STEM NETWORK FUNDING:
The Louisiana Legislature appropriated $1 million to advance regional STEM efforts throughout Louisiana. Nine Regional STEM Network Centers (RSNCs) are part of a competitive application process that began in March of 2020. These funds will cover first-year associated costs towards the creation and implementation of the RSNCs and Directors throughout Louisiana. Each region will have a designated RSNC which will be awarded $100,000 for the first year. These funds will be provided to the RSNCs to cover the salary, benefits, and associated operating costs for the Regional STEM Director and Center within each region. The remaining funds will be budgeted towards raising awareness, providing support & training, and providing needed resources associated with the implementation and operation of the statewide regional STEM network.
The STEM Advisory Council acknowledges the excellent thoughtfulness and effort behind all proposals submitted. It is pleased to announce these sites selected for carrying out the vision shared for the Louisiana Regional STEM Network:
Regional STEM Network Centers
o Region 1 – Greater New Orleans Inc. (GNO Inc.) (Phase 1 process)
o Region 2 – Louisiana State University-Baton Rouge
o Region 3 – Fletcher Technical Community College
o Region 4 – University of Louisiana at Lafayette (Phase 1 process)
o Region 5 – Calcasieu Parish School Board
o Region 6 – Northwestern State University
o Region 7 – Sci-Port Discovery Center (Shreveport)
o Region 8 – Louisiana Tech
o Region 9 – Southeastern Louisiana University
Louisiana’s Regional STEM Network
