Regions Foundation recently donated $250,000 to support scholarships at Alabama A&M University. The donation comes on the heels of a $50,000 contribution from Regions Bank in 2020 to support students impacted by COVID-19.

“Regions has been a tremendous partner to Alabama A&M University, not only in its prudent management of the institution’s fiscal resources but also through its ongoing philanthropic investments,” said President Andrew Hugine, Jr., who announced plans to retire on December 31, 2021.

“When I arrived, my ultimate goal always was to be sure that, upon my departure, the university would be better than the condition in which we found her,” Hugine told Diverse Issues in Higher Education. “Of all the metrics that one might consider, the university is significantly better poised for even greater things in the future than when I arrived here.”

According to Alabama A&M, the latest donation will support students that demonstrate a financial need, as 91% receive financial aid and 77 percent are Pell grant-eligible. Additionally, 49 percent of AAMU students come from homes with an expected family contribution of $0.

“Regions Bank and the Regions Foundation are working to advance education and workforce readiness across our communities while removing barriers to success. Alabama A&M’s mission to equip students to excel directly aligns with our vision for creating more inclusive prosperity,” said Sean Kelly, Huntsville market executive for Regions Bank. “This grant from the Regions Foundation will make a meaningful difference for students – not only today but also in the future as they pursue and achieve successful, rewarding careers.”

In related news, Alabama A&M announced a  $1.25 million Apple grant to boost its tech curriculum and send more Black graduates into computer fields.

“The Apple Innovation Grant will enhance the educational objectives and student success metrics in electrical engineering programs here at AAMU and will provide opportunities for AAMU’s programs related to Apple’s New Silicon Initiative,” said Dr. Zhengtao (ZT) Deng of A&M. “We greatly appreciate Apple’s support to AAMU’s STEM education initiatives!”

(Photo courtesy of “Scenes from AAMU Spring Commencement 2021: by Jerome Saintjones)