On October 20th, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) and the Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) hosted the second annual Swings for STEM charity golf tournament. More than 100 chemical industry leaders, Congressional staff members and FOSSI scholars came together to build support and awareness for the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) and the Chemical Education Foundation (CEFinSTEM). The second annual event was an immense success, raising $111,000 to benefit FOSSI and CEF.
Why This Work Matters
The chemical industry is evolving rapidly, from sustainable materials and advanced manufacturing to clean energy technologies. At the heart of this innovation is a growing need for skilled STEM talent.
FOSSI plays a vital role in meeting that need by helping to eliminate financial barriers to STEM education and opening doors for future careers in STEM fields. The program empowers scholars to thrive through leadership development, experience in the chemical industry, and a growing support network.
CEFinSTEM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring K–8 students to pursue STEM education and careers, helps activate younger generations’ interest in STEM by providing resources and tools to teachers and students.
A Record Show of Support
FOSSI sponsors were a vital part of the event’s success. For the second consecutive year, Dow returned as the presenting sponsor for the event, reinforcing its deep commitment to advancing opportunities in STEM. Eastman, also in its second year of sponsorship, not only supported the event but celebrated a tournament win, showcasing its team spirit and leadership on and off the green! Catalynt also returned as a leading sponsor for the 2025 event, illustrating the power of collaborative impact in the chemical industry and its supply chain. Chevron Philips Chemical LP (CPChem) expanded its engagement in 2025 as the event’s reception sponsor.
Chemours, a Founding partner in FOSSI and major program supporter, joined FOSSI sponsors Deloitte and Brenntag to support the event, underscoring their long-standing dedication to fostering future talent in the chemical industry. In total, nearly 20 organizations came together to support the event – surpassing last year’s sponsorship levels!
“Tee”-Ing Up Scholar Engagement
The event also welcomed FOSSI scholars: Caitlyn Thompson, Stenette Byrd IV, Jeremiah Harris, Jaia Arzu, Sunday Youmans, Mira Reynolds, Malachi Nelson, Hedges Oyne-Franklin, and Bailey Williams from across the country. Scholars had the opportunity to meet with sponsors, connect with fellow students, and participate in a professional golf lesson.
A highlight of the day was a professional development session led by Dr. Kimberly Wise White, ACC’s Vice President of Scientific and Regulatory Affairs. The session focused on helping scholars craft compelling elevator pitches to confidently communicate their strengths, and explored how to connect their academic majors to meaningful career paths within the chemical industry.
Attending Swings for STEM was an amazing experience. As a FOSSI scholar, having the opportunity to meet and engage with the people who make this scholarship possible was truly rewarding. From connecting with other scholars to golfing and participating in professional development activities, Swings for STEM 2025 was an unforgettable experience that I will continue to talk about. I’m excited to see how it continues to grow in the years to come.
To the scholars who joined us: thank you for bringing your energy, insight, and curiosity to the event. You represent the future of STEM, and the future looks bright!
Know a Future FOSSI Scholar?
If you know a high school senior who may be eligible for the FOSSI scholarship, please encourage them to apply here.
Application deadline: January 15, 2026
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