MKS Instruments Renews Support of Inclusion Initiative

MKS Instruments has renewed its commitment to student success with a five-year pledge to the Knight Campus Graduate Internship Program’s (KCGIP) Inclusion Initiative, which includes the Inclusion Scholarship, workshops for students, and an annual Inclusion Symposium. This second gift of $50,000, allocated at $10,000 per year over five years and matched by KCGIP, underscores MKS Instrument’s dedication to broadening access to STEM education and strengthening the future workforce.

All admitted KCGIP students are eligible to apply for the Inclusion Scholarship.  Scholarships are awarded to individuals who demonstrate leadership through a strong commitment to collaboration, teamwork, and the ability to work inclusively with others.  The scholarship has historically supported students whose pursuit of science has been shaped by efforts toward inclusion and those who have demonstrated a commitment to inclusion and equity in academic, professional, and community settings.

Beyond scholarships, MKS Instruments has had a lasting impact on KCGIP through hiring interns, informing the curriculum, and donating capital equipment and tools for students’ hands-on training, particularly in the Optics program. Since 2021, MKS Instruments’ support for the Inclusion Scholarships, along with KCGIP’s match, has reduced financial barriers for 84 master’s students. For many recipients, the scholarship has made graduate level training accessible, supporting pathways into internships and ultimately the STEM workforce.  

Stacey Wagner, AVP of Graduate MS Programs, emphasizes that “we are grateful for this renewed commitment from our long-time partner, MKS Instruments. This investment comes at a critical time and should be a win-win – so talented students can access high wage careers and at the same time ensuring that high tech industry has a robust pipeline of dependable talent.”