Entergy Tribal Scholarship Empowers American Indian Students Through Higher Education

Rhea-AI Summary

On May 30, 2024, at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Entergy partnered with the American Indian College Fund (AICF) to present a $50,000 grant to support Native American students' higher education. This marks the ninth consecutive year of collaboration, benefiting students from the United Houma Nation and others. Entergy Louisiana President Phillip May and VP for Corporate Social Responsibility Patty Riddlebarger emphasized the company's dedication to overcoming educational barriers. Since 2015, Entergy has funded over $315,000 in scholarships for 135 Native American students, addressing the community's educational underrepresentation. The AICF has aimed for a 60% graduation rate by 2025 and has awarded over 150,000 scholarships worth more than $280 million since its inception in 1989.

Positive

• Entergy has contributed over $315,000 in scholarships since 2015.
• The $50,000 grant will support Native American students' higher education.
• Collaboration with the American Indian College Fund has been ongoing for nine years.
• Entergy's efforts aim to address the underrepresentation of American Indian students in higher education.
• American Indian College Fund has provided over 150,000 scholarships and over $280 million in support since 1989.
• AICF aims for a 60% graduation rate by 2025.

Negative

• American Indian students receive bachelor's degrees at less than half the national average.
• Only 135 scholarships have been supported by Entergy since 2015, which may be seen as a impact relative to the need.

BY: CRISTINA DEL CANTO | SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / May 30, 2024 / Entergy Corporation

During a special event held at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Entergy partnered with the American Indian College Fund, or AICF, to award a grant in support of higher education for Native American students. For the ninth consecutive year, our collaboration with the AICF has been instrumental in empowering Native American students, enabling them to pursue rewarding career paths and emerge as influential leaders within their communities.

At the festival, Entergy Louisiana president and CEO Phillip May and Entergy Vice President for corporate social responsibility Patty Riddlebarger presented a $50,000 check to the AICF and the United Houma Nation Chief for student scholarships. This significant contribution will benefit students as they embark on their educational journeys and strive to make a positive impact.

"For the ninth year, we are honored to stand alongside the American Indian College Fund in our shared commitment to empowering Native American communities," said May. "Entergy remains steadfast in our dedication to creating opportunities for young individuals to overcome educational barriers and pursue higher education."

Since 2015, Entergy's shareholders have funded more than $315,000 in scholarships for Native American students, which has supported 135 scholars. American Indian students are the most educationally underrepresented population in America, receiving bachelor's degrees at less than half the national average of approximately 37%.

Every year, the AICF plays a crucial role in assisting more than 4,000 students in starting and completing their educational journeys, enabling them to earn their degrees and embark on successful careers. With a goal to achieve a 60% graduation rate for all scholars by 2025, the AICF has provided over 150,000 scholarships and more than $280 million to support American Indian communities since its establishment in 1989.

Entergy's vision "We Power Life," extends beyond delivering essential energy service to our customers. We are committed to investing in critical programs and initiatives that contribute to the growth and prosperity of the communities where we live, work and serve. Through our philanthropic endeavors, volunteerism, initiatives to support our low-income customers, and economic development initiatives, we remain dedicated to fostering healthy, educated, environmentally sustainable and thriving communities. Learn more about our community engagement here.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Entergy Corporation on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:
Spokesperson: Entergy Corporation
Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/entergy-corporation
Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Entergy Corporation

View the original press release on accesswire.com

FAQ

What is Entergy's latest initiative for Native American students?

Entergy has awarded a $50,000 grant to the American Indian College Fund to support Native American students' higher education.

How much has Entergy funded in scholarships for Native American students since 2015?

Entergy has funded over $315,000 in scholarships supporting 135 Native American students since 2015.

What is the American Indian College Fund's goal for graduation rates?

The American Indian College Fund aims to achieve a 60% graduation rate for all scholars by 2025.

How many scholarships has the American Indian College Fund awarded since its establishment?

The American Indian College Fund has awarded over 150,000 scholarships worth more than $280 million since 1989.

Why is the American Indian College Fund important for education?

The AICF helps address the underrepresentation of American Indian students in higher education, assisting over 4,000 students annually.