WASHINGTON — Partners in the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) announced an ambitious goal to expand support and funding for under-represented groups to pursue a degree in a science, technology, engineering or math (STEM) field at historically black colleges or universities (HBCUs). After exceeding its inaugural goal of funding 150 scholars in 2021, the program will aim to support 1000 scholars through 2025. 

The goal would provide $40 million in scholarships to students through 2025, reflecting the commitment of chemical manufacturers and affiliates to drive diversity, equity and inclusion in the industry’s workforce. 

FOSSI Chairman Mark Vergnano noted, “Through this ambitious long-term goal, FOSSI has the potential to have a real, tangible impact on the face of the chemical industry, providing opportunities for students in local facility communities and across the nation to pursue their dreams of a STEM education. But, it’s not just a scholarship. FOSSI creates lasting relationships between scholars and sponsors and helps provide real-world training and leadership skills to ensure these students’ success in their college years and beyond.”

Founding Partner and CEO of HBCU Week Foundation, Ashley Christopher, added, “HBCUs have an important role in advancing and supporting groups that have historically been overlooked and under-represented. This goal has the potential to impact thousands of families and communities and create a diverse pipeline of future leaders.” 

FOSSI has the support of nearly 50 chemical manufacturers and related organizations, and has raised more than $15 million to date, funding over 300 scholars. The inaugural class of FOSSI scholars represented 110 high schools across 28 states, and scholars are currently attending 26 HBCUs, majoring in 17 STEM majors. 

To learn more, visit FutureofSTEMscholars.org.