AT&T CONTRIBUTES $600k to HELP NJ STUDENTS

View the entire newsletter: 2015 - NJAC County Biz - January

by Daniel Langan, Public Affairs for AT&T

AT&T this year contributed more than $600,000 to organizations across New Jersey as part of AT&T Aspire, the company’s signature education initiative focused on high school success and career readiness.  With an unwavering commitment to data-driven education outcomes, AT&T Aspire has impacted more than one million students since its launch in 2008.

“At AT&T, we believe that when we invest in education, we are making our communities stronger, safer and more economically viable,” said J. Michael Schweder, president, AT&T Mid-Atlantic. “We understand that investing in a well-educated workforce may be the single most important thing we can do to support a strong, competitive New Jersey.  That’s why we’ve teamed up with organizations across the Garden State to inspire students to stay in school and prepare them to be the next generation of leaders for New Jersey.”

Schweder added that AT&T and its employees have a tradition of giving back to the communities where they live and work.  All told, AT&T and its employees contributed more than $14.4 million from 2009-2013 through giving programs in the state.

In 2014, Rowan University received a $50,000 contribution for its Junior Aim High Academy, which exposes high school students to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers.

“AT&T is one of the leading corporations in New Jersey supporting STEM initiatives. These initiatives are essential as we introduce students to educational and professional opportunities in science, engineering, medicine and other fields. AT&T’s contributions are critically important for our region and our state, which needs well-trained talent in these high-demand areas,” said Dr. Ali Houshmand, president, Rowan University.

New Jersey City University (NJCU) received $40,000 to support the Proyecto Science program that provided under-served high school students with STEM-based academic enrichment classes last summer.

“AT&T’s generous support of NJCU’s Proyecto Science program is a priceless gift to 250 high school students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to advance their interest in science.  Proyecto Science introduces young science students to study on a university campus and opens their eyes to the countless possibilities a higher education can offer,” said NJCU Vice President for University Advancement Daniel P. Elwell.

The 2014 funding recipients are:

ASPIRA Association, Inc. (Newark, Paterson, Jersey City): $198,000; Rutgers University Foundation (Statewide): $150,000; Rowan University Foundation (Glassboro):  $50,000; New Jersey City University (Jersey City): $40,000; Drew University (Madison):  $30,000;  Children’s Home Society of New Jersey (Trenton): $12,000; Latino Institute (Newark):  $15,000; NJ SEEDS (Newark):  $25,000; New Jersey Heroes (Mendham):  $25,000; Civic League (New Brunswick): $25,000; Middle Earth (Bridgewater):  $10,000; Christ the King Preparatory School (Newark): $20,000

Learn More About AT&T Aspire

AT&T Aspire brings together AT&T employees, nonprofits and community members to help equip students with the skills they need to lead the digital, global economy. AT&T is investing in innovative education organizations, tools and solutions; and employing technology and capabilities that are unique to our company to make a positive impact on education.  To learn more visit www.att.com/aspire and follow us on Twitter @ConnectToGood.