Thank you to our sponsor
FOSSI extends its sincere thanks to Syensqo for investing in the futures of FOSSI Scholars, including Kamrin, Sebastian, Eric, Aubrey, and Glen. Through its support, Syensqo is helping students pursue STEM degrees at HBCUs, build valuable skills, and take important steps toward their future careers.
Join us in shaping the future of STEM. Discover how your company can create a lasting impact on tomorrow’s leaders as a FOSSI sponsor.
Meet Kamrin Brown: 2026 FOSSI Scholar Attending Southern University and A&M College
Kamrin Brown, from Harvest, Alabama, is attending Southern University and A&M College to study chemical engineering as part of the university’s inaugural chemical engineering class. A graduate of Sparkman High School, she was a varsity cheerleading captain, National Honor Society member, and active volunteer in her community.
Kamrin’s love for STEM began in fourth grade, when she discovered how much she enjoyed solving multiplication problems under pressure. Her early enthusiasm for math grew into an interest in engineering and finding creative solutions to complex challenges.
In the future, Kamrin hopes to develop safer, more sustainable solutions in medicine and clean energy while inspiring more young women to pursue engineering. Receiving the FOSSI scholarship was an emotional moment that made her feel her hard work had paid off. Outside of academics, she enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures, and challenging herself through competitive cheerleading.
Meet Sebastian Cooley: 2026 FOSSI Scholar Attending North Carolina A&T State University
Sebastian Cooley, from Houston, Texas, is attending North Carolina A&T State University to study mechanical engineering with an emphasis in aerospace. A graduate of Cypress Park High School, he earned academic and athletic honors while participating in varsity basketball and technology competitions.
Sebastian’s interest in engineering began with his curiosity about how things work, particularly airplanes. Inspired by his father and brother, both engineers, he hopes to develop more efficient aviation technologies and help make space travel more accessible.
Receiving the FOSSI scholarship was especially meaningful to Sebastian because it recognized his hard work while easing the financial burden on his family. He also looks forward to connecting with fellow STEM scholars at HBCUs. Outside of academics, Sebastian enjoys basketball, video games, reading, and listening to old-school music.
Meet Eric Sims Jr.: 2026 FOSSI Scholar Attending Prairie View A&M University
Eric Sims Jr., from Detroit, Michigan, is attending Prairie View A&M University to study electrical engineering. A graduate of Lincoln Senior High School, he was a National Honor Society member, earned honor roll recognition throughout high school, and helped his varsity basketball team win back-to-back state championships.
Eric’s interest in STEM grew from his curiosity about how technology works and his desire to create solutions of his own. Particularly interested in artificial intelligence and automation, he hopes to develop technologies that improve people's lives while mentoring the next generation of STEM students.
Receiving the FOSSI scholarship reassured Eric that his hard work was paying off and motivated him to push himself further. He credits his mother, an entrepreneur, with teaching him the importance of consistency and perseverance. Outside of academics, Eric played varsity basketball all four years of high school and also participated in track and cross country.
Meet Aubrey Slaughter: 2026 FOSSI Scholar Attending Howard University
Aubrey Slaughter, from Durham, North Carolina, is attending Howard University to study mechanical engineering with a concentration in aerospace engineering. A graduate of J.D. Clement Early College High School, she has a passion for designing and building things and runs two small businesses: Henna by Aubrey and a custom clothing business.
Aubrey hopes to combine her creativity and engineering skills to build a career in the aerospace industry. Her greatest inspiration is her mother, 
whose determination and perseverance have taught her to keep pursuing her goals, even when faced with challenges.
Receiving the FOSSI scholarship was a meaningful moment for Aubrey, giving her greater confidence to pursue her education without financial barriers holding her back. Outside of academics, she enjoys art, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. She has also participated in soccer, flag football, indoor track, and volleyball.
Meet Glen Yonkers III: 2026 FOSSI Scholar Attending North Carolina A&T State University
Glen Yonkers III, from Washington, D.C., is attending North Carolina A&T State University to study mechanical engineering. A graduate of McKinley Technology High School, he served as a student ambassador and member of the Global Kids Leadership Council and helped secure a $10,000 grant to strengthen his school community.
Glen’s interest in engineering beg
an when he received his first model remote-controlled car and became fascinated with assembling its parts and understanding how they worked. Today, he hopes to develop smart vehicle technologies that improve road safety, reduce emissions, and make transportation more accessible.
Receiving the FOSSI scholarship was an emotional surprise for Glen, who learned the news while celebrating graduation with his family in Mexico. Inspired by his father’s commitment to community service, Glen also hopes to mentor students from underrepresented backgrounds and encourage them to pursue engineering.
More about FOSSI
The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) supports students pursuing preferred STEM degrees at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Each FOSSI scholarship provides $40,000 in financial support over four years ($10,000 annually), along with opportunities for mentorship, professional development, and industry connections.
See the video below for an inside look into how FOSSI is changing the lives of these amazing scholars.