COLUMBUS, OH — For the second consecutive year, Hexion Inc. will support the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI), the chemical industry’s collaborative equity, diversity and inclusion initiative aimed at creating pathways for more underrepresented groups to enter and succeed in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers in the chemical industry. FOSSI provides opportunities for chemical manufacturers, supply chain partners and affiliated industry stakeholders to fund scholarships, provide internship opportunities and facilitate mentoring and leadership training for students majoring in STEM at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

With an investment of nearly $100,000 annually, Hexion will sponsor two scholars over the next four years, joining a growing list of organizations supporting the initiative. The Future of STEM Scholars Initiative is a joint partnership between the American Chemistry Council, the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, Chemours and the HBCU Week Foundation. 

“Hexion is pleased to help support this critical, industry-wide initiative to help increase the number of underrepresented professionals in the STEM workforce,” said Craig A. Rogerson, Chairman, President and CEO. “Hexion and FOSSI are dedicated to supporting those STEM Scholars who would otherwise not have access to a STEM education by eliminating financial barriers. At Hexion, we are committed to celebrating the diversity of our associates and creating an environment of inclusion. The FOSSI program aligns perfectly with these principles.”

In its inaugural year and to support the Class of 2021, the program received funding from 43 chemical manufacturers and related industry stakeholders, while supporting 151 scholars, at an investment of $7.2 million in 2021. FOSSI scholarship recipients represented 28 states, with students planning to attend 26 HBCUs. In its inaugural year, more than 1,700 high school students across the nation applied for FOSSI scholarships, demonstrating both the urgent need for this program and the enormous pool of untapped talent. FOSSI is currently accepting applications for the Class of 2022 at www.futureofstemscholars.org/fossi/apply. The deadline to apply is Feb. 15, 2022.

Additional information about Hexion Inc. and its products is available at www.hexion.com.