(Rohnert Park, CA) – The U.S. Department of Education has announced that Sonoma State University will receive more than $4 million to continue helping low-income, potential first-generation students in Sonoma and Mendocino counties prepare for and enroll in college.

Nearly 200 local high school students participated in science, technology, engineering and mathematics workshops as part of STEM Expo Day at Sonoma State University this summer.

Students at six Mendocino County high schools are learning how to make homemade Geiger counters and mud-powered batteries thanks to a group from Sonoma State University and a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education.

Sonoma State University staff member Susan Wandling was recognized last month as an American Graduate Champion by KRCB public broadcasting for her work with schools to lower the high school dropout rate in Sonoma County.