Dr. Gaolin Zheng Milledge, assistant professor of math and computer science, has received a $20,000 grant from North Carolina State University to analyze hazard-resistant bacteria. Milledge will study a bacteria nicknamed "Conan the Bacterium" because of its resistance to radiation, cold, vacuum, dormancy, oxidative damage and other factors. This bacteria could possibly be used by astronauts during Mars explorations.

Dr. Eleanor Joyce Roland, associate professor and interim chair of the Department of Nursing, has received a $50,000 grant from the N.C. Area Health Education Centers (AHEC) Program to develop an off-campus RN-BSN program at Halifax Community College in Weldon, N.C. The goal of the project is to increase the number of bachelor's prepared nurses in Halifax County.

The Office of Sponsored Research and Programs congratulates the following faculty members recently awarded grants:

- Stephany Biggs, director of the Office of Academic and Community Outreach, received a grant of $400,000 from the N.C. Department of Public Instruction to establish a 21st Century Community Learning Center for African-American high school students performing below grade level in reading and math. One hundred students will be served through the African-American Youth Leadership Academy designed to improve educational and social outcomes for students. Participants will attend a 10-day Summer Residential Institutes (SRI) on the NCCU campus.

Dr. Seronda Jackson-Robinson, assistant professor and epidemiologist in the Department of Public Health Education, has received a grant of $25,180 from UNC-Charlotte to study the biopsychosocial determinants of weight gain in black first-year college women. Jackson-Robinson hopes to develop a culturally sensitive program to promote healthy weight and positive body image.

Dr. Deborah Bailey, director of the Academic Community Service Learning Program, has received a grant of $100,000 from the Corporation for National and Community Service to implement Summer of Service - Durham. The program is an environmental service and leadership summer program targeting middle school students in Durham. It includes the creation of recycling programs and community gardens in the 10-block area surrounding the NCCU campus.

Kevin Harrell, health educator and adjunct professor in Student Health and Counseling Services has received a $47,500 grant from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services' Division of Public Health to implement Project Commit to Prevent (PC2P), a peer-education program for prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.