Duke Energy Foundation Invests $740,000 in Florida Education

Duke Energy Foundation Invests in Florida's Education Sector

The Duke Energy Foundation has made a significant contribution by providing $740,000 in grants aimed at enhancing educational opportunities across various Florida institutions. This initiative underscores the Foundation's commitment to fostering workforce development in the energy sector.

Support for Diverse Educational Initiatives

In total, 18 organizations have been selected to receive funding from this grant, which will aid in advancing programs focused on sustainability, energy, and engineering. The recipients include educational foundations, community organizations, and both state colleges and universities. This year’s funding will facilitate an array of initiatives designed to benefit a broad demographic of students.

Career Exploration and Student Engagement

These grants will enable host organizations to conduct career exploration field trips and summer camps tailored for K-12 students. Additionally, educators will receive essential resources to further enhance programming and engagement in energy-related fields.

Insights from Leadership

“Education can spark lifelong interest in a given field,” remarked Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. By investing in unique educational initiatives, the Foundation aims to create pathways that may ignite students' passion for careers in energy and engineering.

Highlighting Notable Grant Recipients

One notable recipient, the University of Florida (UF), received a $75,000 grant focused on a trio of educational initiatives that target the energy sector. The “Energy Education, Mentoring and Scholarship Program” will empower students through scholarships and additional educational opportunities.

Innovative Programs at UF

This program is particularly beneficial for eight selected engineering students who have expressed an interest in pursuing careers in energy, allowing them to receive Duke Energy Scholar awards worth $2,000 each. Furthermore, UF plans to launch a Sustainable and Resilient Energy Engineering Certificate (SREEC) to promote student-driven research centered on solar energy technologies.

Future of Energy Education

Maria Gutierrez Martin, UF Foundation's associate vice president, emphasized the importance of equipping students with the knowledge necessary for future careers in energy. The initiatives not only aim to broaden high school and middle school students' understanding of the energy grid but also to align higher education with sustainable energy practices.

Expanding Opportunities Beyond UF

FUTURES Foundation, operating within Volusia County, has received a $30,000 grant that will bolster student engagement in energy program initiatives, focusing on areas such as solar energy and electrical design. This initiative is crucial for encouraging active participation in STEM fields, especially within coastal communities.

FUTURES Foundation's Impact

According to Shimene Shepard, executive director of the FUTURES Foundation, this funding allows students their first opportunity to engage with real-world applications of energy science. Such experiences are vital for stimulating interest in energy careers from an early age.

List of Grant Recipients

Here is a list of some of the organizations that have received grants:

K-12 Education Recipients

• Citrus County Education Foundation
• Consortium of Florida Education Foundation
• Education Foundation of Lake County
• Foundation for Orange County Public Schools
• Foundation for Seminole County Public Schools
• FUTURES Foundation for Volusia County Schools
• Highlands County Education Foundation
• Jefferson County Education Foundation
• Madison County Education Foundation
• Orlando Science Center
• Pinellas County Education Foundation
• Polk County Education Foundation

Higher Education Recipients

• Seminole State College of Florida
• Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University
• Florida Polytechnic University
• University of Central Florida
• University of Florida
• University of South Florida

About Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation is dedicated to delivering over $30 million annually in philanthropic contributions that support the needs of communities where Duke Energy customers reside. This financial commitment signifies the Foundation's goal to drive impactful community improvements.

About Duke Energy Florida

A subsidiary of Duke Energy, Duke Energy Florida operates with a robust energy capacity of 12,300 megawatts, providing electricity to 2 million customers within a sprawling 13,000-square-mile service area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the Duke Energy Foundation grants?

The grants aim to support educational initiatives and workforce development in the energy sector in Florida.

How many organizations received funding from Duke Energy Foundation?

18 organizations were awarded grants to improve educational opportunities and programs.

What types of programs will be supported by the grants?

Funding will support energy education, scholarships, summer camps, and STEM-related programs.

How much did the University of Florida receive?

The University of Florida received a $75,000 grant for energy-focused education initiatives.

Why is energy education important?

Energy education fosters interest in sustainable practices, prepares students for future careers, and promotes resilience in energy management.

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