For 10th consecutive year, Nissan contributes to STEM-focused programming at Mississippi’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

CANTON, Miss. – Continuing its long-time support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Nissan is donating $250,000 to Mississippi’s seven HBCUs to further STEM education. Since launching the Mississippi HBCU STEM Initiative in 2014, Nissan has invested a total of $2.5 million to support and encourage innovative program development that serves Mississippi HBCU students, helping to build the tech workforce of the future.

“It’s our privilege to support Mississippi’s HBCU as they prepare a new generation to take on the STEM challenges and opportunities of tomorrow,” said Chandra Vasser, vice president and chief diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) officer, Nissan Americas, and HBCU alumnus. “Many of Nissan’s Canton employees are graduates of a Mississippi HBCU and are helping to shape the future of our business. We’re proud to support the schools that have prepared them to make a positive impact, not only within our company but within the communities we serve.”

The seven HBCUs receiving a Nissan donation are Alcorn State University, Coahoma Community College, Hinds Community College – Utica Campus, Jackson State University, Mississippi Valley State University, Rust College and Tougaloo College. Among the funded projects are:

• Alcorn State University Applied Sciences Programs and Robotics and Automation Technology Enhancements is a two-part project that provides STEM learning opportunities for middle and high school students, including STEM camps and robotics competitions, that build interest and skills in technical career pathways and advancements to robotics laboratories.

• Jackson State University Student Robotics Lab and Program is a dedicated space for students to engage in activities related to robotics and advancing technologies. Activities in the lab support senior design projects, competition preparation and student innovations.

• Tougaloo College STEM Pipeline Project is an initiative to create a pathway to education and strengthen pre-college and college students’ knowledge of advanced technology and innovation. Key activities include a research symposium, STEM workshop, and summer science and engineering program.

“As an alumnus of Alcorn State University, I am especially proud to be a Nissan employee today,” said Victor Taylor, vice president, Manufacturing, Nissan Canton Vehicle Assembly Plant. “I was well prepared by my alma mater to take on a STEM career in the automotive industry and to advance Nissan’s vehicle electrification endeavors. HBCUs are a major pipeline of talent for us, and we’re thrilled to support the STEM learning opportunities they offer their student body.”

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