On October 29, 2024, FOSSI traveled to Atlanta, GA, to visit with the 53 FOSSI scholars that attend Spelman College (35), Morehouse College (15), and Clark Atlanta University (3).
FOSSI sponsors and scholars gather at Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University graciously hosted the event on their campus at the Thomas W. Cole, Jr. Research Center for Science and Technology, and attendees included the FOSSI team & scholars, faculty and administrators from all three schools, and 25 representatives of FOSSI sponsor companies, who enthusiastically mixed and mingled over lunch. Talented local photographer Hannah Allen was also on hand to offer free professional headshots to the scholars.
Spelman alum, Bridget Ray-Canada, kicks off the program
Bridget Ray-Canada, Spelman alum and Senior Director of Digital GBS & Supply
Chain at Cabot, led a brief program and welcomed guests remarking, “I am proud that Cabot is a FOSSI sponsor supporting these outstanding FOSSI scholars, who will help us build a dynamic talent pipeline for the chemical industry. The FOSSI program will ensure our success well into the future to create a diverse and inclusive workplace.”
Chaudhary discusses the need for STEM and the importance of HBCUs
Representing the HBCUs, Dr. Jaideep Chaudhary, Dean of the School of Arts and Science at Clark Atlanta University, underscored that “STEM is more than just a collection of subjects—it’s a way of shaping the 
world for the better. By investing in STEM education…we’re investing in a brighter future for all of us.” He noted that careers in STEM fields are growing faster than in many other sectors with the demand for skilled professionals rising. “Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) play a crucial role,” he said, “producing nearly 25% of all Black bachelor's degrees in STEM in the U.S.”
Blanks highlights the benefits of the FOSSI program
Manager of FOSSI Scholar Engagement & Education Programs, Adrienne Blanks, encouraged students to take advantage of all the benefits of the FOSSI program including virtual programming and corporate mentorship, and urged them to make the most of being in the room with so many program sponsors, advising “this is a great opportunity to grow your networks!”
The program concludes
Following the remarks, sponsors had a turn, and each company shared a brief description of their 
organization and highlighted some of the exciting jobs available to FOSSI scholars.
As the event drew to an end, scholars were invited to ask questions and solicited advice on finding the right mentors, effective interviewing techniques, tips on standing out, and adapting to the workplace.
If you know of any high school seniors who are eligible for the FOSSI scholarship, please encourage them to apply! The application deadline is January 31, 2025
See more photos from FOSSI's visit to AUC campuses below!
We invite companies not currently supporting FOSSI to build their pipeline of outstanding and diverse talent by supporting a FOSSI scholar. Learn more.