Harris Stowe State University

A new research collaboration is focusing on how and why students leave St. Louis city schools before the end of the school year.

Harris-Stowe State University is no stranger to financial challenges, and the coronavirus pandemic brought on new ones. The institution's newest president, Corey S. Bradford Sr., discusses how Harris-Stowe weathered the pandemic and what are his efforts to bring in more state funding to the university.

Public colleges and universities were already making do with fewer students and less state aid before the pandemic. Both of those dropped faster than expected in 2020.

The National Science Foundation has awarded Harris-Stowe State University $342,699 to provide students with research opportunities, experience and mentors. About 40% of African American college students who study science, technology, engineering and math switch their majors before graduating. Harris-Stowe professors say the program could keep Black students focused on STEM and prepare them for rewarding careers.

Missouri higher education leaders are asking lawmakers for more funding for operational needs and facility maintenance in the budget cycle that starts…