Baker Hughes Foundation Grants $400K to Support HBCU STEM and Career Programs


08/21/2024


The Baker Hughes Foundation announced on Monday two significant grants for the 2024-25 academic year aimed at supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). A $200,000 grant will be provided to Texas Southern University (TSU), and another $200,000 grant will go to Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU). These contributions align with the Foundation’s longstanding mission to enhance education and create opportunities in communities where Baker Hughes employees reside and work. The funding will support various STEM programs, student development, professional certifications, and career readiness initiatives.
 
Since 2021, the Baker Hughes Foundation has contributed over $1 million to HBCUs, reflecting the historic connections between these institutions and the company, as well as the universities’ strong academic programs in science, technology, engineering, business, and law.
 
“We are proud to continue supporting HBCUs, as empowering future generations with the tools for success will drive innovation and help build a diverse workforce,” said Deanna Jones, Baker Hughes’ Executive Vice President of People, Communications and Transformation, and President of the Baker Hughes Foundation. “Together, we can advance energy solutions.”
 
The grant to TSU will be used for curriculum development, leadership training, and career services within the Jesse H. Jones School of Business and the College of Sciences, Engineering, and Technology. It will also facilitate access to assessments and soft skills training, bolster diverse student recruitment and placement in high-demand careers, promote education around ESG literacy, and expand opportunities for attending professional conferences. TSU, one of the largest HBCUs in the nation, offers over 120 degree programs.
 
At PVAMU, the grant will primarily fund summer bridge programs, hardship scholarships, and leadership and tutoring initiatives for students in engineering and business. The summer bridge programs are designed to ease the transition to college by equipping students with essential academic and social resources. Additionally, Baker Hughes Foundation’s support will allow PVAMU students to gain skills in financial analysis and portfolio management. PVAMU, the second-oldest public higher education institution in Texas and a Carnegie-classified high-research activity university, offers academic programs across 10 colleges and schools.
 
"Texas Southern University is deeply appreciative of the Baker Hughes Foundation's investment in our students," said TSU President J. W. Crawford III. "This support will help our students develop the skills that employers seek, paving the way for their academic success and future careers. We anticipate this gift will have a lasting impact on our students' achievements and professional journeys."
 
“Baker Hughes has been a valued partner of PVAMU for many years, and we are excited to continue our collaboration in educating bright minds and preparing students with the essential skills for college success,” said PVAMU Vice President for Enrollment Management, Dr. Sarina R. Willis.
 
These grants are part of Baker Hughes' broader strategy to develop the energy workforce of the future while fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. The donations also support the company’s commitment to advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
 
Click here to know more about Baker Hughes’ work in supporting its communities.