The Institute of International Education, a major global provider of scholarship and education initiatives named Exxon Mobil Corporation as the recipient of its 2009 Opening Minds Corporate Leadership Award.
The award recognizes ExxonMobil’s outstanding global philanthropy, including initiatives that improve the teaching and learning of engineering, technology, math and science, and the company’s support for organizations that seek to improve career opportunities for minorities and women.
“Through its programs, initiatives and partnerships, ExxonMobil demonstrates a long-standing commitment to promoting academic excellence,” said Allan. Goodman, president and CEO of the institute. “ExxonMobil is committed to developing future leaders who will tackle pressing international issues and strengthen their communities around the world.”
Rex Tillerson, chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil, accepted the award Wednesday at the 90th Anniversary International Awards Gala in New York.
“ExxonMobil is proud of its partnership with the Institute of International Education, and we are honored to receive this award,” said Tillerson.
“Together, we are helping build a brighter future by improving education, expanding knowledge, developing leaders, and driving progress in many countries around the world. We consider this award as recognition of the great work we are accomplishing together and of the achievements still to come.”
ExxonMobil and the institute developed a partnership in 2006 to administer several programs, which build stronger communities through education and leadership training. They include the ExxonMobil Middle East and North African Scholars Program, ExxonMobil Indonesia Geosciences Program, the ExxonMobil Libyan Limited Scholarship Program and the newly launched ExxonMobil Russian Scholars Program. These scholarships provide select student leaders from these countries and regions with the opportunity to pursue Master’s degrees at U.S. universities in fields such as geoscience, engineering and business.