According to the 2014 U.S. News/Raytheon STEM Index, student abilities and interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) have been relatively flat for more than a decade, even as the need for STEM expertise continues to increase. Locally, Deerfield-based Lundbeck US is working hard to address this issue. “Lundbeck is a science and research-based company, so we have an important responsibility to inspire and motivate the next generation of scientists,” said Staffan Schüberg, president of Lundbeck US. “We also have a deep understanding that these young adults interested in STEM careers will be tomorrow’s medical innovators, bringing new treatments to patients who need them.”
Lundbeck is a long-time partner of the Perspectives/IIT Math & Science Academy, an open enrollment public school focused on scientific inquiry and problem solving in math, science and all subjects. In 2011, Lundbeck sponsored the refurbishment of the school’s chemistry lab, and each year offers two internship positions for students to gain hands-on experience in STEM careers.
This year, for the first time, Lundbeck is taking its commitment to STEM education a step further by offering two college scholarships to Perspectives seniors demonstrating academic excellence and a passion for STEM. Cyrenthia Clark and LaShay Holloway, recipients of the Lundbeck scholarships, will enroll in STEM majors when they begin college in the fall. Clark is driven to study biology and environmental science. She plans to use that background to become a patent lawyer so she can protect scientific innovations. Holloway aims to be a psychiatrist and provide access to quality mental health care for individuals who may not otherwise have the resources to get help. “We are very proud to support Cyrenthia and LaShay,” said Schüberg. “They represent the solution to the ongoing struggle this country faces with producing STEM graduates.”
