This fall, ExxonMobil, in conjunction with the Hispanic Heritage Foundation, is recognizing Hispanic high school students around the country for achievements in engineering and mathematics through the Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards.
ExxonMobil has contributed more than $1.7 million to the Hispanic Heritage Foundation in the 10 years the company has sponsored the awards.
ExxonMobil’s grants support scholarships for promising Hispanic engineering students, regional recognition events for high achievers across the U.S., and mentorship programs.
Selection committees in 10 regions received more than 5,000 applications for the 180 available awards. Committees elect three graduating seniors in each of the six categories to receive the honor based on academic achievement, community service and an essay about the importance of their heritage. Regional winners hail from 10 areas including Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, northern California, Phoenix, San Antonio and Washington, D.C.
Selection categories include Business, Education, Engineering and Math, Journalism, Leadership and Sports.
Additionally, one national youth award winner will be chosen from among regional winners in each category. National winners will receive an additional educational grant, laptop computer and a trip to the National Youth Award presentation in Orlando.
“There is nothing more vital to our country’s future than the creative minds who will keep America competitive,” said Rex Tillerson, chairman and CEO of Exxon Mobil Corp. “Our goal as a company is to reach students with the programs, knowledge and support they need to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. We are proud to support the Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards and reach young people who have such potential.”
In addition to underwriting the Hispanic Heritage Youth Awards, ExxonMobil supports a variety of programs that encourage students to develop a keen interest in careers related to math and science, promote the involvement of women and minorities in these industries, and improve effectiveness of math and science teachers. Nationally, ExxonMobil actively promotes math and science education through the ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camps, Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academies, Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, and Sally Ride Science Academies brought to you by ExxonMobil, among others. Significant emphasis is also placed on increasing student involvement in the welfare of their communities through the Community Summer Jobs Program and Green Team.