Loras College in Dubuque has received a $649,065 grant from the National Science Foundation to fund a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) program. The program is expected to begin this fall. The Loras Duhawk Stem (DuSTEM) program, named after the college mascot, “Dewey the Duhawk,” will provide STEM-specific academic guidance and curriculum to students who want to pursue a STEM career, the college said in a release. A majority of the funds will be directed to provide scholarships to students who demonstrate academic ability and financial need. DuSTEM students will be personally mentored, become part of a STEM learning community, and participate in community-driven projects.