Bowie State University Awarded Nearly $1 Million National Science Foundation Grant to Launch Computing Experiential Hub

New initiative will prepare students for high-demand careers in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies

(BOWIE, Md.) - Bowie State University has been awarded nearly $1 million from the National Science Foundation to establish the Computing Experiential Hub (CEH), a new initiative that will give students hands-on experience and industry connections to prepare them for high-growth careers in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.

The three-year grant, awarded through NSF's Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) program, will fund the creation of structured learning opportunities that combine classroom knowledge with real-world applications. Students will participate in industry-sponsored AI projects, faculty-led research and entrepreneurial collaborations while receiving close mentorship and professional development.

"With the Computing Experiential Hub, BSU is taking a bold step to ensure our students are not just learning about artificial intelligence but actively applying it through real-world projects and industry partnerships," said Dr. Rose Shumba, chair of the Department of Computer Science and principal investigator for the CEH. "This initiative will open doors to high-growth careers, expand diversity in the AI workforce and position BSU as a national leader in preparing the next generation of innovators."

CEH will recruit 12 students each year for the first three years, with plans to expand to 30 students annually through additional funding and institutional support. The program will provide stipends and travel funding so participants can fully engage in off-campus internships, industry immersion experiences and collaborative research opportunities.

"Our goal is to give students the kind of industry-aligned, real-world experiences that will make them stand out as future leaders in the AI workforce," Dr. Shumba said. "By building these bridges now, we are creating lasting pathways to success for our students and strengthening Bowie State's role as a hub of technological innovation."

The program will also build new partnerships with leading technology companies, including IBM, as well as startups and entrepreneurial ventures, to ensure students are learning alongside professionals who are driving change in the field. Faculty, graduate students and industry mentors will work closely with participants to develop both their technical skills and professional networks.

As Maryland's first historically Black public university, Bowie State has long been a leader in expanding access to educational and economic opportunity. The CEH initiative reflects that mission by removing barriers to participation in high-demand technology fields and ensuring students from all backgrounds can compete for top roles in the growing AI workforce.

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About Bowie State University

Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the 'Research College and University' designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

MEDIA CONTACT: Kelly Alexander, [email protected], 301-860-6017