RICHMOND, VA – Virginia Union University will endow a STEM studies program, create the “Dominion Energy Scholars” scholarship program, complete renovations of Huntley Hall, support a workforce development and training program, and underwrite technology upgrades to 40 classrooms, thanks to a $6 million grant from Dominion Energy.
Virginia Union University is one of 11 historically black colleges and universities benefitting from Dominion Energy’s six-year “HBCU Promise.” The program will support endowments, capital projects, operating expenses and educational programs in clean energy at HBCUs in Virginia, Ohio, North Carolina and South Carolina.
“We are grateful to Dominion Energy for awarding us this grant to support Virginia Union University’s growth as we continue to expand our offerings to the next generation of scholars,” said Dr. Hakim Lucas, President of Virginia Union University. “The funds will assist the university in making necessary changes and renovations to work towards becoming a ‘Best in Class’ institution.”
The grant to Virginia Union University will help launch a STEM studies program, including scholarships, faculty enrichment, research, and additional programs designed to develop Black STEM professionals, and endow the “Dominion Energy Scholars” scholarship program, which will cover two students’ tuition per year. Additionally, the grant will expand the workforce development and training program, where participating students will receive a stipend, applied directly to tuition costs, to work at the school and in the community. Finally, the grant will support the much-needed renovations to Huntly Hall, and allow technology upgrades to be made in 40 classrooms on campus.
“We know that education can serve as a springboard for social and economic mobility,” said Ed Baine, president of Dominion Energy Virginia. “We’re honored to support HBCUs that are doing a great job developing the future workforce and leaders of our nation.”
Dominion Energy also has committed $10 million in scholarships to assist African American and other underrepresented minority students who reside in the company’s service area. Students can learn more and apply at DominionEnergy.com/EquityScholarships.
About Virginia Union University
Virginia Union University is a premier liberal arts urban institution of higher education and center of excellence for the preparation of students and the development of leaders for tomorrow’s world. It was founded in 1865 to give newly emancipated slaves an opportunity for education and advancement. Virginia Union University offers a broad range of educational opportunities that advance liberal arts education, teaching, research, science, technology, continuing education, civic engagement, and international experiences. Visit https://www.vuu.edu/ for more information