WASHINGTON (September 30, 2021) – The American Chemistry Council (ACC) today received the American Society of Association Executives’ (ASAE) “Power of A” Silver Award, for its commitment to enhancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the chemical industry under the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI). FOSSI is a collaborative initiative between ACC, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), The Chemours Company and the HBCU Week Foundation dedicated to reducing financial barriers for students majoring in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs).
The association industry’s highest honor, the “Power of A” awards recognize extraordinary contributions and efforts to enrich lives, create a more competitive workforce, drive innovation, and make a better world.
FOSSI is a national chemical industry-wide scholarship program which provides students $40,000 scholarships and connects them to leadership development, mentoring and internship opportunities at sponsoring companies.
FOSSI illustrates the impact collaborative, industry-wide initiatives can have on the lives of communities of color that have historically been overlooked and underrepresented. I hope this initiative can serve as a model for other associations to help advance diversity, equity and inclusion in the workforce and nationwide.
Launched in 2020 with an ambitious first year goal of underwriting 150 scholars, FOSSI has exceeded that goal with the support of more than 40 ACC members and related industry stakeholders. To date, FOSSI has raised more than $11 million and sponsored 151 scholarships.
“Congratulations for exemplifying the impact associations have on the industries and professions they represent, and on society at large,” said ASAE President & CEO Susan Robertson, CAE. “It’s always so incredibly satisfying to see associations going above and beyond their everyday mission to change the world. We’re very proud to spotlight this award-winning initiative.”
Congratulations for exemplifying the impact associations have on the industries and professions they represent, and on society at large. “It’s always so incredibly satisfying to see associations going above and beyond their everyday mission to change the world. We’re very proud to spotlight this award-winning initiative.
To learn more about FOSSI, visit FutureOfSTEMScholars.org.
