Renewable energy company Drax, a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions, today announced a commitment of $50,000 to establish scholarship opportunities for incoming freshmen enrolled in programs within the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences (CAAS) at Alcorn State University (ASU), the nation’s first 1890 land-grant institution.
“This investment will strengthen our ability to prepare students for success beyond graduation by providing access to training, career readiness experiences, and the development of critical soft skills that employers value in today’s workforce,” Dr. Dexter B. Wakefield I, Dean and Director of Land-Grant Programs at CAA said. “We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration will create and look forward to working alongside the Drax Foundation to enhance workforce readiness, improve post-graduate outcomes, and equip the next generation of leaders with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to thrive in agriculture, STEM, and related industries.”
Drax SVP of Corporate Affairs, Deidra Jackson and Dr. Dexter B. Wakefield I, Dean and Director of Land-Grant Programs at CAA. Photo credit: Tommie Green, Alcorn State Division of Marketing and Communication
The scholarship initiative is designed to help reduce financial barriers for students pursuing careers in agriculture, environmental stewardship, food systems, and related scientific fields. Beginning in the upcoming academic year, 20 eligible first-year students will receive financial assistance to support tuition, books, and other educational expenses.
“Our company believes that investing in education is one of the most powerful ways to build a sustainable future and this partnership reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to higher education,” Deidra Jackson, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Drax said. “By supporting students at Alcorn State, we are helping develop the next generation of agricultural innovators and environmental leaders who will play a critical role in advancing sustainable practices.”
Agriculture and renewable energy are increasingly interconnected as industries work to address climate challenges, improve resource efficiency, and promote long-term sustainability. Together, Drax and CAAS aim to support students whose future careers may contribute to innovative solutions in both sectors.
“This investment will strengthen our ability to prepare students for success beyond graduation by providing access to training, career readiness experiences, and the development of critical soft skills that employers value in today’s workforce,” said Wakefield.
To learn more about the Drax Foundation and Drax’s community efforts, visit www.drax.com/community.
To learn more about Alcorn State University’s College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, visit www.alcorn.edu/caas
Press release provided by Drax
