Science Applications International Corp. announced their new partnership with Alabama A&M University last Thursday. They have partnered to award two lucky incoming freshmen a $100,000 scholarship fund. The grant will finance the education of students in A&M’s College of Engineering, Technology, and Physical Sciences department.

Alabama A&M has already selected one recipient, Lebo Mashego. Mashego, who was inspired to apply for the SAIC STEM Scholarship by his sister, an AAMU alumna, plans to study mechanical engineering.

Alabama A&M is in the process of selecting the second recipient.

“These students are the technology leaders of tomorrow, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to provide support and guidance for them,” said Greg Fortier, vice president of the Army Fires, Aviation and Missile Defense Operation at SAIC. “SAIC partners with reputable universities such as Alabama A&M, who are responsible for helping our future scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians reach their full potential and enable STEM transformation critical to our society’s success and well-being.”

This is the first year SAIC has worked with Alabama A&M to provide scholarships and opportunities for students to pursue through the College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences (CETPS) and the AAMU-RISE Foundation, which facilitates research and development efforts with the school, industry and government partners.

“Our relationship with SAIC has provided opportunities for our students to explore comprehensive, rewarding academic experiences, regardless of their financial circumstances,” said Dr. Zhengtao Deng, interim dean of the College of Engineering, Technology and Physical Sciences. “We look forward to augmenting our collaboration to educate and equip future innovators, encouraging the continued success of the school’s programs.”