The Tichenor-Greer Scholars Program at Chestnut Hill College has announced the first cohort of students to graduate will be part of the Class of 2018. The four graduating seniors are Andrew Conboy, environmental sciences; Megan Malvoisin, forensic chemistry; Jada McFadden, forensic biology; and David Tulloch, computer systems management.

Established by Carl and Patricia T. Greer ’62 in 2014, the Tichenor-Greer Program provides annual awards of $5,000 to students who choose to major in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math);  Preference is given to students of color. The program has grown to fund 40 students from an initial group of five and because of this growth, the Greers offered to fund a full-time director position.

Jody Markley, the program’s inaugural director, spent her first year at CHC helping the students in the program navigate the rigorous demands required of a STEM major. She has recruited 20 new scholars, coordinated a mentoring program, advised, and provided academic enrichment and service opportunities for the current scholars.

“It’s been a wonderful year seeing the students work toward the achievement of their dreams of a STEM degree and career and especially thrilling to see our first cohort graduate,” says Markley. “We’re looking forward another stellar year in the fall, but in the meantime, we’re working to put together a summer bridge program for our incoming scholars to take math and/or science classes, build community as a cohort, and have their skills honed and ready for their transition to college life in the fall.”

— Brenda Lange