Barclays US Consumer Bank has announced a financial commitment of $1 million to Delaware State University for the 2021-2022 academic year. This investment is part of Barclays' Race at Work agenda and aims to extend intellectual capital to address pressing global issues through the university's Global Institute for Equity, Inclusion and Civil Rights.
Azura Mason, Global Head of Race at Work at Barclays, stated, "Our partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are a critical component of our Race at Work agenda. We are committed with our time, talent and resources to truly make a difference in the communities we serve. HBCUs are not only a talent pool, but they are also on the forefront of creating solutions for societal inequity. Delaware State University is a leader in the HBCU community, and we are glad to continue our long-standing partnership."
Delaware State University President Dr. Tony Allen expressed appreciation for Barclays' ongoing support: "Delaware State University's relationship with Barclays US Consumer Bank has been strong for a decade. While we certainly celebrate the magnitude of this particular gift, what we particularly treasure is Barclays' long-term commitment to our students and our ideal of equal educational access for all. This is the true definition of partnership, and there are many students and alumni who have benefited from it."
The Global Institute at Delaware State University focuses on building equitable opportunities through community and economic development among other initiatives. It partners with various organizations to target resources towards historically marginalized communities.
Dr. Michael Casson, Dean of the College of Business and Interim Director of the Global Institute, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: "The critical piece here is access, both for our students and our researchers, to Barclays' incredible intellectual capital. The insights and benefits of professional experience they will receive is invaluable in terms of creating and sustaining the kinds of impactful partnerships we are trying to create while simultaneously better preparing our students for their chosen careers."
Adam Ahmad, Community Reinvestment Act Officer at Barclays US Consumer Bank, highlighted the bank's commitment: "At Barclays, we are deeply committed to economic growth and increasing access to capital in underserved communities. The economy is not working for everyone, and too many communities of color are locked out of pathways to work and opportunity. We will continue to invest above and beyond what is required by CRA."
The initiative will include guest lectures from senior leadership at Barclays as well as programming focused on economic empowerment.
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