Here’s how Western wants to meet need for increased student interest in STEM classes

Western Washington University announced Thursday that it is attempting to raising $20 million by September to help fund a new building on the Bellingham campus and expand its specialized programs in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields.

“Two of the most important goals in Western’s strategic plan are advancing inclusive student success and increasing Western’s impact in Washington,” Western President Sabah Randhawa said in a release Thursday, Nov. 7. “Preparing more graduates for successful careers in the state’s high-need STEM fields satisfies both objectives at once and demonstrates our commitment to serving the needs of the state, our students and the public good.”