February 17, 2009

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The School of Business at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) has announced the 2009 Summer Bridge Program to benefit minority high school students who plan to earn a business degree. This is the first year for the business school bridge program, which is sponsored by the School of Business in partnership with the Department of Minority Business Training and Development Program and the Office of Equity and Diversity.

The 2009 Summer Bridge Program is a seven-week opportunity for selected minority applicants who will be graduating high school in the spring, have been admitted and plan to attend UAB and will start work toward a business degree in the fall semester. The selection process is highly competitive with a total of 10 spots available. Interested parties can secure application forms through Lauren Johnson in the business school at ldjohnson@uab.edu or 205-934-2453. Applications must be received by April 1, 2009, and mailed to the attention of Dr. Louis Dale, UAB, 401 Campbell Hall, 1530 3rd Ave. S., Birmingham, AL 35294.

Chosen bridge program participants will be required to enroll in one English and one math credit course over the seven-week summer session. Students also will participate in faculty-led tutoring sessions, receive career counseling and mentoring support, be given instruction in PowerPoint and poster presentation and take part in social activities to promote networking.

Selected students will receive tuition for the term, free textbooks, a meal allowance and free university housing because residence hall living is a participant requirement. Additionally, students will receive a $1,200 stipend for successful participation in the program.