MAXUS Homeroom STEM Scholars
The MAXUS Homeroom STEM Scholars program at Grand Canyon University provides financial and academic support to high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds who are pursuing engineering degrees. Designed to serve Pell-eligible students with strong academic potential, MAXUS creates a “home away from home” through a high-context, community-centered learning environment. Scholars gain access to specialized programming such as the HomeRoom model, faculty and peer mentorship, and customized professional development opportunities—equipping them for academic success and long-term social mobility.
Jeff La Belle
PI
Dr. Jeffrey LaBelle is a Professor at Grand Canyon University, adjunct Professor at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine in Arizona, and President of labellelabs, IIC. With advanced degrees in biomedical and electrical engineering, he leads innovative research in biosensors, wearable technologies, and advanced manufacturing. Dr. LaBelle’s work bridges academia, industry, and clinical practice, with a focus on translating technologies into real-world applications. He has secured over $7.6 million in research funding and holds numerous patents and publications. His collaborations with Mayo Clinic and local tech companies support both innovation and workforce development across Maricopa County.
Luke Mayer
Co-PI
Dr. Luke Mayer is an Instructor of Mechanical Engineering at Grand Canyon University. He holds a BS, MS, and PhD in Mechanical Engineering from Texas Tech University, where his research focused on renewable energy systems, particularly solar thermochemical reactors. Dr. Mayer brings both academic and global industry experience to his role, having served in instructional and research capacities in the U.S., Spain, and Ethiopia. His work spans renewable energy, mechanical systems design, and engineering education. He has contributed to projects ranging from solar reactor modeling to large-scale simulators and actuator design, with publications in leading engineering forums. At GCU, Dr. Mayer is committed to preparing students for real-world challenges through applied learning and interdisciplinary problem-solving.
Jon Valla
Administrative Coordinator
Dr. Jon Valla is Associate Dean of the College of Natural Sciences at Grand Canyon University. He holds a PhD in Behavioral Neuroscience from the University of Texas at Austin and has over two decades of experience in higher education and biomedical research. Before joining GCU, Dr. Valla held research and faculty positions at leading institutions, with a focus on Alzheimer’s disease, brain metabolism, and diagnostic innovation. He has published extensively and mentored students across all levels. At GCU, he leads efforts to support student success, graduate advising, and research engagement.
I interviewed, what happens next?
Video interviews are shared exclusively with the review panel, and it typically takes about a day for all members to access them—particularly since some reviewers travel internationally over the summer and are unable to attend live sessions. Once every reviewer has submitted their scores and feedback, the results are reviewed, and candidates are ranked accordingly.
The next step involves verifying each candidate’s financial aid status. Some applicants may still need to complete this process, which can delay scholarship decisions. Those individuals should contact their GCU counselor as soon as possible. This scholarship is considered a “last dollar” award, meaning it is applied only after all other financial aid has been factored in.
The review team aims to release all acceptance and rejection notifications by July 1st.
I wasn’t accepted, now what?
For those who were not selected, please know this decision was not easy. There are many exceptional students with demonstrated financial need and strong academic promise. However, only four scholarships are available during this phase of the NSF grant.
Still, students are encouraged to attend GCU and explore all the opportunities available. Those who are in Arizona are welcome to visit campus over the summer. The lab will remain active throughout the season, and visitors are always welcome to stop by.
For students joining in the fall, arrangements can be made to check in after move-in. Local students are also encouraged to connect during the summer. There are often ongoing research projects and industry partnerships that may offer valuable opportunities to get involved and build toward future success.
I was accepted, now what?
Students located in Arizona are encouraged to visit campus during the summer. The research lab remains active year-round and welcomes student engagement. For those arriving in the fall, arrangements should be made to check in after move-in. Local students may also reach out earlier to connect.
Who can I connect with?
Students are encouraged to connect with Dr. Jeff La Belle on LinkedIn, regardless of the outcome. He is always open to staying in touch and supporting students’ academic and professional journeys. LinkedIn: Dr. Jeff La Belle
I was accepted: Does living on or off campus affect the scholarship amount?
Yes, it can, but it is unlikely: be sure your GCU counselor has the most accurate information about where you plan to live.
I was accepted; What happens if I change majors?
Students must be enrolled in an “S-STEM eligible discipline,” which includes certain science majors and most programs in engineering, mathematics, or technology. If a student switches from a STEM major to a non-STEM major, they will no longer be eligible for this scholarship. If you’re considering changing your major, please reach out—there may be ways we can help or provide guidance.
The MAXUS Homeroom Stem Scholars project is made possible by a grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation. This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
