Harris-Stowe’s $66M STEM Expansion: Nicole Blount’s Vision for Equity and Workforce Growth
Nicole Blount, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Harris-Stowe State University, is leading a transformative journey to expand the university’s STEM identity and deepen its regional workforce impact. With a career rooted in education, advancement, and relationship-building, Blount is shaping a future where Harris-Stowe becomes a hub for innovation, equity, and opportunity.
Why Nicole Blount Chose Harris-Stowe State University
A Career Built on Purpose and Progression
Nicole Blount’s career has been a steady progression in education and advancement. Starting as a classroom teacher, she transitioned into admissions at Savannah State University, where she discovered the natural collaboration between alumni engagement, recruitment, and fundraising. Her journey continued through roles at INROADS, Savannah State, and Clark Atlanta, where she honed her skills in alumni affairs, corporate partnerships, and advancement infrastructure.
Blount describes her role at Harris-Stowe as a natural next step:
“This role fits the trajectory of my life and my work. It’s a progressive move that aligns with what I value deeply.”
Why Harris-Stowe Feels Like Home
Blount recalls her first visit to Harris-Stowe State University as a moment of alignment:
“When I stepped on campus, it reminded me of my first day at Savannah State. It felt like home—not geographically, but because it felt right.”
She credits the leadership of President Collins-Smith and the institution’s commitment to transformational work as key factors in her decision.
The Role of Institutional Advancement at Harris-Stowe
Beyond Fundraising: Building Relationships
Blount emphasizes that institutional advancement is about more than fundraising:
“Advancement is engagement. It’s relationship-building across every constituency—students, parents, alumni, companies, foundations, and major giving partners.”
Her philosophy is clear: relationships come first, and resources follow. This approach ensures that partnerships are mutually beneficial and sustainable.
Visionary Leadership for Long-Term Impact
Blount’s leadership is rooted in big-picture thinking and strategic execution. She explains:
“You have to dream big—big enough that it scares you a little. Vision says, ‘This is what success looks like.’ Then the work becomes: what’s the next right thing?”
Her strategy focuses on building strong infrastructure, hiring the right people, and creating systems that support long-term goals.
The $66 Million STEM Expansion at Harris-Stowe
The Big Picture: Transforming STEM Education
Harris-Stowe State University is undergoing a $66 million STEM-focused campus transformation aimed at strengthening regional workforce development and expanding access for historically underserved students. The project includes modern STEM learning spaces, industry-aligned training, and interdisciplinary use.
Funding Status and Goals
At the time of the interview, $41 million of the $66 million project cost had been secured, leaving a $25 million philanthropic goal. Blount’s team is focused on scaling the remaining needs and aligning partners to complete the campaign.
Why the STEM Expansion Matters
The new STEM building will serve as an interdisciplinary hub, providing access to students across all majors. Corporate partnerships will play a key role, with companies integrating into the space through maker labs, mentorship programs, and workforce pipelines.
Blount explains:
“STEM is not just innovation; it’s equity strategy. Expanding access reshapes opportunity for marginalized students.”
The Regional Workforce Impact of Harris-Stowe
A Pipeline for Local Talent
Harris-Stowe graduates often stay, work, and invest in the St. Louis region, creating a direct pipeline to local workforce growth. Blount highlights the importance of this connection:
“Investing in Harris-Stowe is investing in local talent that will contribute directly to the region’s growth.”
Partnerships That Expand Opportunities
Collaborations with institutions like Washington University, Saint Louis University, and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency create pathways for students to access advanced education, research ecosystems, and specialized opportunities.
The Future of Harris-Stowe and HBCUs
Changing the Narrative Around HBCUs
Blount is passionate about ending the “best kept secret” narrative surrounding HBCUs:
“The community often doesn’t realize how much brilliance is in this building right now. That narrative has to end.”
A Vision for Transformation
Blount envisions a future where Harris-Stowe grows beyond expectations:
“I hope we build more housing, academic space, and communal space. I want Harris-Stowe to grow beyond what people thought possible.”
Conclusion: Building a Legacy at Harris-Stowe
Nicole Blount is not just leading a campaign; she’s building a culture of connection, visibility, and long-term investment. Her work at Harris-Stowe State University is a front-line strategy for transforming a university, strengthening a workforce pipeline, and expanding opportunity across St. Louis.
Related Reading
For more stories about leadership and transformation, visit The Narrative Matters.
Learn more about the importance of STEM education and workforce development at National Science Foundation.
#HBCULeadership #STEMEducation #WorkforceDevelopment
