FOSSI Honored with Chairman's Award for HBCU Contributions

FOSSI Recognized for Impact on HBCUs

The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Chairman's Award by the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This recognition is part of the Excellence in Innovation and Collaboration Acknowledgement Awards, presented during a notable event known as the 2024 National HBCU Week Conference.

Championing Diversity in Education

The award was presented to Dr. Tony Allen, the Chairman of the President's Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the President of Delaware State University, who recognized FOSSI’s meaningful actions in strengthening HBCUs. The initiative aims to enhance the capacity for these institutions to attract both private and public investments.

A Focus on Scholarships

Since its establishment in 2020, FOSSI has been pivotal in addressing financial barriers that hinder higher education access for students interested in STEM fields. The initiative provides significant scholarships of $40,000 to students pursuing various STEM degrees at HBCUs.

Success Through Partnership

Mark Vergnano, Founding Chair of FOSSI, and Ashley Christopher, President of the HBCU Week Foundation, accepted the award on behalf of the initiative. Dr. Allen noted how the efforts of Vergnano and Christopher have opened numerous opportunities for talented students across the nation, thus benefiting historically black educational institutions.

Financial Achievements and Future Goals

To date, FOSSI has successfully raised nearly $40 million, enabling the distribution of over 800 scholarships through the year 2028. This initiative is helping students from almost 40 HBCUs succeed in their educational endeavors and prepare for promising career opportunities. Impressively, the program boasts a student retention rate of nearly 95% for its first three classes.

Testimonials from Leaders

Vergnano expressed gratitude for the honor, stating that it reflects the collective efforts of all the Founding Partners and over 80 organizations dedicated to this valuable program. According to him, FOSSI not only helps in fortifying the academic pipeline but also propels innovation while fostering a diverse future workforce in the chemical industry.

Christopher highlighted the profound impact of FOSSI on HBCU enrollment. She stated, "The HBCU Week Foundation is immensely proud of the partnerships we’ve formed within FOSSI and how it connects high school students to the invaluable legacy of HBCUs, enabling hundreds of them to realize their dreams of attending these historic institutions."

Looking Ahead: Future Opportunities

As part of its ongoing commitment to enriching the educational landscape, applications for the 2025 scholarship program will open soon. Interested candidates can explore the opportunities offered by visiting the Future of STEM Scholars' official website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI)?

FOSSI is a national program that provides scholarships to students pursuing STEM degrees at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

What is the significance of the 2024 Chairman's Award?

The award honors FOSSI for its outstanding contributions and collaborations to strengthen HBCUs and promote diversity in the education sector.

Who are the key figures in FOSSI?

Key figures include Mark Vergnano, the Founding Chair, and Ashley Christopher, the President of the HBCU Week Foundation.

How much funding has FOSSI raised so far?

FOSSI has raised nearly $40 million to support its initiatives and scholarships for students.

What is the scholarship amount provided by FOSSI?

FOSSI offers scholarships of $40,000 for students studying in preferred STEM disciplines at HBCUs.

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