Roanoke Higher Education Center receives $50,000 grant to further social and racial equity The Roanoke Higher Education Center (RHEC) has received a $50,000 grant from the American Electric Power Foundation to launch “Social and Racial Equity: Diversity in Partnerships,” creating new opportunities for educational access and job training in the Roanoke Valley. The grant allows RHEC to recruit a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to the Center, and also fund scholarships for minority students. Through this partnership, Virginia State University (VSU) joins the Roanoke Higher Education Center as its newest member.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT By Kaitlyn Van Buskirk
“The American Electric Power Foundation is pleased to be able to support the work of the Roanoke Higher Education Center,” said Larry E. Jackson, Director of External Affairs, Appalachian Power. “Access to education is critical to unlocking the true potential of our region and the addition of Virginia State University to the Higher Education Center community expands our ability to attract high potential students. We look forward to seeing what this new partnership brings.” The grant will allow the HBCU to occupy space at the Center at no charge for two years, where they can connect with the Roanoke community, determine sustainable programming, and form partnerships with the twelve other members of the Center. Additionally, the new scholarships for minority students will open doors to career advancement by offering access to new job skills, training, and certification programs. In doing so, RHEC demonstrates its commitment to social and racial equity, providing access to educational
36
t FEBRUARY 2022 / vbFRONT.com
