Computing Community for Good (CCG) Scholars Program and Scholarship

Empowering the Next Generation of Computer Scientists

Welcome to the Computing Community for Good (CCG) Scholars Program and Scholarship – an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring computer scientists looking to make a difference. Designed specifically to support students pursuing a Computer Science degree, this program provides a comprehensive support system, including financial aid, mentorship, and professional development. With the aim of building a diverse and inclusive community, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey towards a rewarding career in the ever-evolving world of computer science.

SCIS - Student working at tables, on laptops, with a monitor displaying Hello.
Hands-On Development in the CS Degree

Why CCG?

For Students: In the CCG Scholars Program, we understand the challenges of transitioning from high school to college, which is why we offer a Summer Bridge program. This program bridges offers the opportunity for early move in to the dorms, helps prepare you for the first semester of college, creates connections with faculty within your program, and fosters a strong sense of community among scholars. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from experienced faculty, connect with industry professionals, and build lifelong friendships with fellow scholars. Our aim is to create an environment where you can thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

For Parents: We know that investing in your child’s education is a priority, and that’s why we are thrilled to offer the Computing Community for Good Scholars Program and Scholarship. With our program, your student will receive not only financial support but also faculty, peer, and industry mentorship. We believe that guidance and support are crucial in helping students succeed, and we are dedicated to their academic and professional growth.

Build Your Cohort

As part of the Computing Community for Good Scholars Program, students have the incredible opportunity to be part of our Living-Learning Community. Picture yourself on a floor in a select dorm, surrounded by fellow students who share your passion for computer science. Every step you take, you’ll be walking alongside peers who understand the challenges and triumphs of this exciting field along with Resident Assistants, who are themselves pursuing a computer science major. Faculty members are equally committed to your success and take the time to host get-togethers and events throughout the semester, fostering  community and providing mentorship opportunities.

Professional and Academic Development

Academic and professional development is a cornerstone of the CCG program. Students will have access to workshops, seminars, guest speakers, and additional educational opportunities that will help them excel academically and develop essential skills sought after by employers. We believe that a well-rounded education includes not only theoretical knowledge but also practical application, and we provide the resources to make that happen.

National Science Foundation

The Computing Community for Good (CCG) Scholars Program and Scholarship is made possible through a generous $1.5 million NSF grant. This funding allows us to offer this amazing opportunity.

STEM: Computing Community for Good: Increasing Retention and Success of Computing Students through Curriculum Development, Community Support, and Service Learning (#2221472).
CCG - Student Q&A Panel - three upper level and graduate students, along with the department chair Penny Rheingans, join the CCG scholarss
CCG Student Q & A Panel
CCG - Maze Challenge & Cohort Building - students working together to navigate a grid outline on a tarp that is on the ground to solve a path drawn by another student.
CCG Maze Solutions - Cohort Bonding

Apply NOW to Join CCG at UMaine

Take the first step towards a fulfilling and impactful college experience. Apply to join the Computing Community for Good Scholars Program and Scholarship today. 

Apply now to secure a place in this dynamic program and let you achieve your computer science goals. For more information email Dr. Laura Gurney (Laura.Gurney@Maine.edu).

CCG Early Arrival Cohort Bonding

During the CCG early arrival and cohort bonding, one of the sessions saw the group bonding as a team to solve our ropes course activity challenges (See slideshow below).

Meet the CCG Team

Penny Rheingans

Roy Turner

Terry S. Yoo

Graduate Members

Ally Ryan
Program/Department:   Master of Science in Teaching
Ally Ryan is a graduate student in her second year of the Master of Science in Teaching program at the University of Maine. She completed her undergraduate degree in Biology at the University of Maine and joined this graduate program to reach her goal of becoming a high school biology teacher. Ally’s thesis work looks at how student’s report about their experience when asked to complete a creative writing assignment in an upper level undergraduate STEM course. Specifically, how do students in a human anatomy course report about their experience writing a haiku to represent a structure and function relationship in the human body? Ally has been a TA for Introductory Biology, Biology of Marine Organisms, and Pre-Calculus, and is happy to be joining the CCG team! 

Madeline Dougherty
Program/Department:   Master of Science in Teaching

Madeline Dougehrty is a graduate student in the Masters of Science in Teaching program in the RiSE Center at the University of Maine.
Research and Scholarship Interests
Madeline’s research interests include projects to help teachers improve their ability to teach data literacy and related skills such as quantitative reasoning.

Vanessa Klein

Chris Dufour

Laura Gurney