Shaw University‘s Center for Racial and Social Justice has just received a generous gift of over half a million dollars from Gilead Sciences, Inc. In its just to drive social and racial equity, the center recently partnered with the City of Raleigh, North Carolina. Read the release from Shaw below to learn how this recent gift will help support the center’s mission.

Today Shaw University announces that Gilead Sciences, Inc. has awarded the university’s Center for Racial and Social Justice (CRSJ) a $525,000 grant distributed over a three-year period. Shaw’s Center for Racial and Social Justice launched in June 2020 to further the development of a more just and equitable society. 

Shaw University Professor Dr. Lynette I. Wood, courtesy of Diversity MBA

The funding will help build general infrastructure and sustainability efforts for the CRSJ including targeted initiatives: lectures, workshops, seminars, certificate programs, forums, exhibits, student-led civic engagement, and ongoing advocacy work.

“Throughout its 155-year history, Shaw University has been a consistent, visible leader in social and racial justice,” stated Dr. Paulette Dillard, President of Shaw University. “Gilead’s investment in the Center for Racial and Social Justice will help us train the next generation of leaders and continue our mission.”

Shaw University, the Progressive Pulse

“Gilead is strongly committed to working with our employees, partners and communities to advance racial and social justice,” said Amy Flood, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs, Gilead Sciences. “Our partnership with Shaw and the Center for Racial and Social Justice will ensure that meaningful social engagement can continue to develop and strengthen civil and human rights, and build up the next generation of leaders who will fight for the health and wellness of Black communities”, said Daniel O’Day, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Gilead Sciences. “The Racial Equity Community Impact Fund will provide resources to groups that are working on the frontlines to combat social inequities directly impacting the health and wellness of the Black community. This program is one of the ways that we are delivering on our commitment to promote racial equity and social justice.”

Shaw University’s Center for Racial and Social Justice was also recently awarded grants from Duke Energy and the City of Raleigh.