FAMU is among 25 public and private HBCU to share in a $10 million scholarship gift from global beer and spirits maker Diageo North America, which makes Crown Royal, Guinness beer, and Smirnoff vodka. The company says the gift will help to develop future leaders and help shape a more equitable society.
The funds will be distributed according to each institution’s financial aid process.
“We are proud to partner with these esteemed institutions and to do our part to help shape a more equitable society by providing opportunities for future leaders,” said Debra Crew, president, Diageo North America. “This initiative further deepens Diageo’s commitment to making a long term and sustainable impact on underrepresented communities.”
Diageo North America has also committed to taking a step to build a pipeline of talented leaders through an internship platform over the coming years. The company will provide opportunities for HBCU students to gain valuable work experience at a fast pace that could help them with their future career aspirations or jump-start their career in the consumer goods industry.
The company said it's giving four grants of $1 million, one grant of $500,000 and 20 grants of $250,000 to the schools, plus another $500,000 to support programs across the colleges. Diageo did not identify which schools are getting which amounts. However, Hampton University has announced that it is receiving a $1 million gift from the fund.