FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ANNANDALE, VA. (November 12, 2024) -- Nvolve, Inc. is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Northern Virginia Community College’s (NOVA) Biotechnology Leadership in Education (NOBLE) Project, housed at NOVA’s Manassas Campus in Prince William County. Supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) ( award number 2300849) this partnership aims to equip students from underrepresented and non-traditional backgrounds with the skills necessary for successful entry-level employment in the biotechnology sector.
The NOBLE Project is focused on addressing the needs of the regional biotechnology and life sciences industries. It seeks to increase student recruitment, retention and graduation from underserved populations, including women, military veterans and adult learners. This initiative aligns perfectly with Nvolve’s mission to provide career-focused training and mentorship, particularly to underrepresented groups in STEM.
“As part of our efforts to bolster student recruitment, retention and success, NOVA’s Biotechnology Program and specifically the NOVA Biotechnology Leadership in Education (NOBLE) Project are excited to partner with Nvolve,” said David Fernandez, PhD, professor of biology and principal investigator of The NOBLE Project at NOVA. “The project is structured to focus on the recruitment of women and minorities in STEM fields, so that working with an organization such as Nvolve seems like a natural fit. Nvolve has a proven track record of success with their many student scholars. They offer a unique approach to curriculum development, professional skills training and mentorship. Through augmenting our ability to mentor, support and train our students for success in the biotech industry, we look forward to this partnership helping us achieve our goals and provide the best experience we can for our students.”
Nvolve’s unique and proven career preparedness methodology has been highly successful in preparing college students with the essential competencies needed to secure and excel in today’s rapidly changing STEM landscape. It emphasizes experiential learning, real-world project experience, and the development of critical skills such as business communication, critical thinking, problem-solving techniques, teamwork, leadership, negotiating and adaptability. Nvolve’s approach has consistently demonstrated results in guiding college students, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, into rewarding STEM careers.
Through its partnership with Nvolve, NOVA will enhance mentorship opportunities, research experiences and internship programs to support student retention and career readiness. Nvolve will provide training and mentorship to guide students through their academic journey and into the workforce.
“We are honored to collaborate with NOVA and contribute to this vital initiative,” said Faye O’Brien, president of Nvolve, Inc. “Our proven methodology equips students with the tools they need to navigate the dynamic STEM landscape and thrive in the biotechnology industry. By working together, we aim to provide biotechnology students with the practical skills and mentorship needed to meet the workforce demands of the biotechnology and life sciences industries.”
This project, funded by NSF's Advanced Technological Education program, focuses on preparing technicians for advanced technology fields that are crucial to the nation's economy.
For more information about Nvolve’s partnership with NOVA, visit www.NvolveMe.org or contact Faye O’Brien.
MEDIA CONTACT: Kathy Parkinson, NOVA PIO, KParkinson@nvcc.edu
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About Nvolve, Inc.
Nvolve, Inc. specializes in providing experiential learning programs focused on STEM identity development, professional skill-building, and career readiness for underrepresented college students in STEM fields. Its innovative, proven career preparedness methodology has helped students from diverse backgrounds gain the skills necessary to succeed in today’s evolving STEM industries.
About Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)
NOVA is the largest public institution of higher education in the Commonwealth of Virginia and one of America's largest community colleges. NOVA enrolls more than 75,000 students at its six campuses in Alexandria, Annandale, Loudoun, Manassas, Springfield and Woodbridge and through NOVA Online. For more information about NOVA and its programs or services, call 703-323-3000 or visit the NOVA's website.