On November 18th, FOSSI gathered scholars, sponsors, faculty, and staff at Prairie View A&M University for a day of networking, relationship-building, and sharing insights.
Highlights from the program
Matthew Martin from LyondellBasell, a proud supporter of 40 FOSSI scholars, led the program. Dr. Pam Obiomon and FOSSI leaders and partners, including two recent graduates, shared remarks highlighting the exceptional resources and opportunities available to FOSSI scholars. They opened up about their personal journeys, offering encouragement and emphasizing the strength of the FOSSI community.
“I am thrilled to return to the Prairie View campus, the place where my journey began and where I earned my degree in chemical engineering,” commented Martin.” Standing here today, I look around this room and see classmates who have risen to become industry leaders. 
Their success fills me with pride—and with a deep hope that you, too, will rise to meet your own incredible potential.”
Dr. Pam Obiomon, Dean and professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering, praised the transformative impact of FOSSI scholarships. “Our students feel seen and supported in ways that make a difference in their careers. We are very grateful for the investment you are making in their futures.”
Voices from partners and recent graduates
Tiffany Christopher from HBCU Week, a FOSSI founding partner, spoke about the unique advantages of attending an HBCU. FOSSI Senior Manager Adrienne Blanks reminded s
cholars of the program’s resources and expectations. Recent graduates Ashlyn Taylor and Jon Mari McKinley, now working for FOSSI sponsor Chevron Phillips Chemical, urged students to engage fully with corporate sponsors and seize every opportunity, stressing that asking questions often opens doors to new experiences and jobs.
A lightning round wrapped up the program, featuring the 20 FOSSI partner companies in attendance. Each gave a brief overview of their company, including their innovations, technologies, and potential career paths.
Scholar reflections
As the event concluded, scholar Justin Lewis reflected, “I’m truly grateful for the conversations, mentorship, and community I experienced. Connecting with leaders from so many impactful organizations reminded me why spaces like this matter. They provide representation, opportunity, and real conversations that move us forward.”
Added Sam’ya Dolison, “What an honor it was to be in a room with corporate sponsors, future scientists, engineers, and educators. Thank you, FOSSI, for four years of mentorship. I am forever grateful for how your blessings have shaped me into the student I am today and the future doctor/ scientist I am to become.”
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.
If you know any high school seniors who are eligible for the FOSSI scholarship, please encourage them to apply here! The application deadline is January 15, 2026.
Check out more photos from the event below and on Flickr.