(BLUEFIELD)--Utilizing the multidimensional perspectives he has developed as a grant writer, proposal evaluator, and college professor, Dr. Shekhar Pradhan is focusing his effort on training, identifying funding sources, and seeking grants to strengthen Bluefield State College. As the College's Director of Sponsored Programs, he works within BSC's Office of Institutional Development and Advancement.

"With a decline in state funding and an increase in enrollment, grants can provide much needed funds for Bluefield State College," noted Pradhan. "The funding can be used for a variety of purposes to enhance the institution and bring cutting edge technology and quality to the region."

Pradhan, who earned master's and doctorate degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Cincinnati and an MBA from Marshall University, joined the BSC faculty in 1994 and holds the rank of Professor. He brings considerable experience to his new position, having written successful grant proposals to organizations including the National Science Foundation (NSF), the West Virginia Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (WVEPSCoR), and the West Virginia Development Office. Additionally, he has served as a proposal reviewer for NSF and the U.S. Department of Education.

"The challenge of competing for grants and the satisfaction derived from writing a successful grant are very fulfilling," Pradhan said. Nationally, about one of every eight grants submitted receives funding, he stated.

"As the Director of Sponsored Programs, Dr. Pradhan plays a very important role as the College expands its efforts to acquire funds from private foundations and government agencies," observed Dr. Felica Blanks, Executive Director of Institutional Development and Advancement. "Additionally, he will increase awareness of grant opportunities through workshops that are open to the college community and to the residents of the region. In short, he links people to funding sources. This position should help catapult the College to the next level in terms of the number of proposals we can submit to agencies. More grants generate a greater return and more experience among grant writers results in greater success."

As a grant reviewer, Pradhan has gained valuable insight. "I have worked with program directors and teams of reviewers and through that process have learned in some measure what reviewers look for," he explained. He also saw the position as an opportunity for the College to work with the community in pursuing grant-seeking partnerships. "Individuals and organizations wishing to explore these opportunities are encouraged to contact me (304-327-4543 or by e-mail at spradhan@bluefieldstate.edu," he said.

August 20, 2003

August 20, 2003