“Black students are living their dreams and taking steps to become the future of the STEM workforce.”
Thirty-one future STEM professionals are the recipients of the second annual Rooted in Science Scholarship.
The Gold Series and Royal Oils have committed a total of $1 million over five years to support the growth and development of future Black STEM-focused innovators pursuing degrees at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and UNCF member schools.
Recipients of the Rooted in Science scholarships will each receive up to $5,000 per year for two years to cover costs associated with pursuing a degree. See all recipients here.
A 2019 Pew Research Center study shows that black professionals remain underrepresented in the STEM workforce at nearly 9 percent. Royal Oils and Gold Series, two brands of #RootedinScience, launched the scholarship in 2020 to support the growth and development of future Black STEM-focused innovators.
“With the success of our first program in 2021, we are proud to recognize the 2022 Rooted in Science Scholarship recipients,” said Atiya Jordan-Brown, senior scientist, P&G Beauty.
Pantene’s Gold Collection is formulated by a team of black scientists, PhDs, dermatologists and stylists who understand the unique needs of textured hair and deliver superior hydration. Through decades of cutting-edge innovation and technology, coupled with ongoing research on textured hair, Hefeiffer’s Royal Oils were also developed to provide superior scalp care and moisturization for any style.
“On behalf of the Royal Oils and Gold Series, I am proud that we have the opportunity to encourage black women and men to continue to make a difference and pursue their dreams in STEM,” said Rolanda Wilkerson, Ph.D., chief scientist, P&G Beauty. .
A Pew Research Center 2021 study reported that 69 percent of black college graduates working in STEM jobs said someone got them excited about their abilities in related disciplines, and 68 percent said someone helped them see the relevance of these fields to their jobs or careers.
Our commitment to student success and representation begins with P&G leaders, including Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, chief scientist, P&G Beauty, and Atiya Jordan-Brown, senior scientist, P&G Beauty.
“As a black woman scientist, I know how important representation is,” Wilkerson said. “It is critical that we continue to promote diversity in STEM fields because we need the next generation of black minds to continue to innovate and develop products that better meet our needs.
P&G’s longtime partner UNCF will facilitate the allocation of funds.
“UNCF is proud to play a role in closing the diversity gap in STEM fields that create innovation in diverse communities and around the world,” said Maurice E. Jenkins, Jr. executive vice president and chief development officer of UNCF. “We applaud P&G for their commitment and financial support.”
P&G’s Jordan-Brown says the program is already having an impact.
“Black students are realizing their dreams and taking steps to become the future of the STEM workforce.”
