Grant Success Stories

Simpson Reaches For The Stars

Simpson College’s Dr. Aswati Subramanian, Associate Professor of Biology and Environmental Science, has been awarded a prestigious $30,600 Iowa NASA Research Seed grant.

Simpson College awarded grant by Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust

Simpson College received a generous grant for $115,000 from the Roy J. Carver Charitable Trust to strengthen the learning environment for students through innovative classroom design and technology.

U.S. Department of Justice Awards Simpson $300K Grant

Simpson College is one of 36 institutions to receive a grant from the Office of Violence Against Women within the United States Department of Justice. The $300k grant is meant to address and prevent sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking on college campuses.

Simpson Receives National Science Foundation Grant

The National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded Simpson College a $338,000 STEM grant. The grant will be used over a three-year period to redesign Simpson’s data analytics minor. Simpson’s math department, led by faculty Dr. Marilyn Vazquez and Dr. Heidi Berger, collaborated with Dr. Colin Payton, former director of the College’s Writing Center, to develop the successful proposal.

Simpson Receives Grant From Warren County Philanthropic Partnership

Simpson College has received a $3000 grant from the Warren County Philanthropic Partnership.

The grant funds will help create and install the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) board at elementary schools around Indianola. This project, stemming from Simpson’s inclusive Teacher Education courses, enhances inclusivity and accessibility for children of all abilities. The AAC board facilitates non-vocal communication and promotes social interaction by allowing children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), disabilities and non-native English speakers to express their needs, feelings and desires through visual symbols and icons. By providing a means for effective communication, the board supports language development and inclusive play, ensuring that all children can participate fully in playground activities. Simpson’s Teacher Education department is committed to fostering inclusive environments, and this installation underscores our dedication to creating welcoming spaces where every child can thrive. Principal at Emerson Elementary, Jon Fitzpatrick, commented on the playground project.

Simpson College is Awarded Upward Bound Grant

Simpson College has been awarded a grant from the Department of Education to continue the Upward Bound (UB) project for five years, beginning in August of 2022.

The UB project will serve five high-need high schools in the Des Moines area. These schools include East High School, North High School, Lincoln High School, Saydel High School and Indianola High School. It will also serve a portion of the Des Moines Independent School District, the state’s largest and most diverse district.

​​The Simpson College UB proposal has secured ample institutional and community support. “We are fortunate to have developed multiple partnerships with Simpson College, Des Moines Public Schools Community Partnership and area Upward Bound programs that strengthen our ability to serve our students,” stated Caleb Carver, Upward Bound Director.