September 19, 2023 (COLUMBIA, SC) — Columbia International University (CIU), has been awarded a $25,000 grant from Power:Ed, the philanthropy of SC Student Loan Corporation, to support need-based student scholarships for the biology/biomedical program in the 2023-24 school year, which began this month.

Dr. David Dewitt, dean of the CIU College of Arts & Sciences says CIU’s Biomedical Science program prepares students for graduate health professional programs such as medical, dental, physician assistant, veterinary and pharmacy schools.

“With our small class and lab sizes students get individualized attention as they develop hands-on skills,” DeWitt said. “Biology students similarly benefit from the use of laboratory equipment as they prepare for a variety of research and industry positions such as in zoos, aquaria or in the field. Both programs are taught from a biblical worldview.”

The Power:Ed Scholarship is providing critical need-based support for up to 16 CIU students pursuing careers in biology and biomedical science.

“Breaking down economic barriers to education access across South Carolina is at the heart of what we do,” said Power:Ed Executive Director Claire Gibbons. “South Carolina Student Loan and its philanthropy, Power:Ed, are proud to support Columbia International in preparing the next generation of our state’s healthcare and biomedical workforce.”

In FY2023-24 Power:Ed will award $1,000,000 in grants to South Carolina education and career readiness organizations. In this first quarter, Power:Ed has awarded nine grants (including this grant to CIU) totaling $265,000. Grants are administered quarterly, and the next grant funding deadline is October 1, 2023.

About Columbia International University

CIU is celebrating 100 years of its mission to “educate people from a biblical worldview to impact the nations with the message of Christ.” The university consistently ranks among the Top Regional Universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report, as well as a Best Value Regional University in the South. www.ciu.edu.

About Power:Ed

Founded in 2019, Power:Ed, a philanthropy of SC Student Loan is dedicated to creating opportunities for South Carolina’s youth and adults by supporting low-income, minority, and first-generation students; improving access to college and degree completion; and creating pathways to quality workforce opportunities. Organizations serving middle school through post-college talent who are interested in applying for a grant or partnering with Power:Ed, should visit power-ed.org.