The University of Nebraska at Omaha College of Information Science and Technology is creating a pathway for more students to receive mentorship and academic opportunities in information technology, thanks to a $100,000 grant from Verizon over the next three years.

The UNO IT Pathways Program is a new program for sixth through 12th grade students to find mentorship and foster a continuous interest in IT from an early age. With an emphasis on students from underrepresented groups in IT, the program will help create a pathway for students to discover IT through established youth programs and one-on-one mentorship.

“Fostering an interest in students has become an increasing priority for our college, especially in students who might look at the current work force and wonder if they fit into the typical student profile,” Deepak Khazanchi associate dean of the College of Information Science and Technology said.

The Pathways program will invest in 30 to 35 students in its first year, primarily focusing on 7th and 8th grade students from low economic communities and underrepresented groups in tech. The middle school students will have the opportunity to attend College of IS&T’s student initiatives.