Last week, the American Chemistry Council’s (ACC) Dr. Kimberly Wise White traveled to Columbia, South Carolina, for a series of engagements celebrating Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and engaging local leaders, educators and students to empower career readiness. The visit reinforced ACC’s commitment to strengthening pathways for students attending HBCUs and pursuing STEM careers, particularly through the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI), and reflected Dr. White’s personal dedication to mentorship and education. Formed in 2020 by ACC, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), Chemours, and the HBCU Week Foundation, FOSSI provides $40,000 scholarships ($10,000 per year) to students pursuing eligible STEM degrees at HBCUs.
ACC Joins South Carolina Leaders to Celebrate HBCU Day at the State House and Student Opportunity
On February 16, Dr. White met with Columbia Mayor Daniel Rickenmann to discuss how FOSSI can continue connecting local students to meaningful industry pathways. Their conversation focused on shared priorities around education and workforce development.
The day also included a driving tour of culturally significant landmarks, such as the South Carolina African American History Monument, a reminder of the leadership and legacy that continue to shape the state.
On February 17, at South Carolina HBCU Day at the State House in the Blatt Building, Dr. White joined elected officials, as well as several HBCU presidents, faculty and students from across the state, reinforcing their commitment to honoring the legacy of HBCU’s and supporting the next generation of leaders.
The program opened with remarks from state leaders and a welcome message from Dr. White emphasizing the importance of STEM education, opportunity, and career readiness for HBCU students.
A key feature of the day was Dr. White’s participation in a Professional Development Panel, where she shared insights on securing internships, strengthening applications, leveraging mentorship, and building strong professional networks.
Students and leaders then gathered on the State House steps for an official group photo and were recognized on the House and Senate floors; celebrating the academic excellence and leadership of South Carolina’s eight HBCUs, many of which anchor critical STEM programs across the state.
A Meaningful Conclusion at Benedict College
Dr. White closed out the rewarding visit with a meeting at Benedict College with President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, and a campus tour with Dr. Jessica Furrer, Dean of the School of Science & Engineering. The engagement with Benedict College reinforced the power of partnership and the essential role HBCUs play in shaping the next generation of STEM innovators.
ACC’s Leadership in Action
A standout moment of the visit was Dr. White’s opportunity to connect directly with FOSSI scholars Jayme Reynolds of Clinton College and Joshua Ballenger of Benedict College. Meeting with scholars first-hand underscored the tangible impact of FOSSI’s investment in students pursuing STEM degrees and preparing to enter the workforce.
Throughout the visit, one message remained clear: expanding opportunities in education and supporting the next generation of leaders requires partnership and sustained investment. ACC continues to lead in these efforts, especially through FOSSI. By going beyond financial support and connecting scholars with mentoring, internship opportunities, and leadership development, FOSSI is providing students with the work skills and opportunities to succeed.
Since its launch, FOSSI has raised more than $40 million to support hundreds of scholars nationwide, strengthening the pipeline of talent that will help drive innovation, safety, and sustainability across the chemical industry.
A Visit Rooted in Purpose
Dr. White's time in South Carolina reflected ACC's continued commitment to expanding educational opportunities and strengthening the next generation of chemical industry leaders, engaging elected officials, university leadership, and students, and championing transformative programs like FOSSI.
