Pictured from left to right: FOSSI Scholar Ambrose Kee; Kaila White, Syensqo; and Adrienne Blanks, AIChE.
Aggie and FOSSI pride were on full display as the FOSSI team arrived on the campus of North Carolina A&T State University to celebrate the university’s 135 FOSSI scholars and recognize the faculty and administrators who play such a vital role in supporting their growth and development.
Scholars, NCA&T staff, and an outstanding group of FOSSI sponsors from AIChE, ACC, AdvanSix, Arkema, BASF, Cabot, Dow, DuPont, Eastman, Lubrizol, LyondellBasell, Pfizer, PPG, Syensqo and Qnity came together for an afternoon of meaningful connection. The program, led by FOSSI sponsor Taesia Ashworth, Global Talent Acquisition Inclusion Program Leader at Dow, included inspiring remarks from Dr. Clayton Clark, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs; Tiffany Christopher, Director of Scholarships and Project Management at the HBCU Week Foundation; and Adrienne Blanks, Senior Manager of FOSSI. Their messages underscored the power of building relationships, embracing opportunity, and having the confidence to show up authentically as yourself.
Building community and confidence
Blanks also moderated a dialogue between FOSSI scholars Kaila White, an NCA&T graduate (’25) who now serves as a GHP Researcher at Syensqo, and Ambrose Kee, who will graduate from NCA&T in spring ’27. Drawing on their own experiences, White and Kee offered scholars practical advice and encouragement as they navigate their academic journeys and prepare for the workforce.
“Mentorship is a two-way street,” White reminded scholars, emphasizing the value of genuine connections. “Build authentic relationships and the opportunities come flowing.”
Now working in the professional world, White also shared one of the biggest adjustments she’s faced: learning to manage her time effectively while balancing career responsibilities with personal interests and life outside of work.
Kee encouraged scholars to recognize the strength of the community they’re building together. “Build relationships and friendships with your fellow scholars so we can look out for and support each other. Your community is going to be your best resource. Start small, learn from each other.”
Connecting scholars with career opportunities
The program also gave sponsors a chance to shine during a fast-paced lightning round. Each company took two minutes to introduce its organization, highlight available internships and jobs, and share what makes its workplace culture special.
As the formal program wrapped up, conversations between scholars and sponsors continued well into the late afternoon.
Clent Holmes, Eastman’s Global Public Affairs Manager, commented, “I continue to be amazed by this initiative. These students are working extremely hard, and the future of STEM is extremely bright. Not to mention, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is a beautiful campus.”
We invite companies not currently supporting FOSSI to build their pipeline of outstanding and diverse talent by supporting a FOSSI scholar. Learn more.
See more photos from the event below.