NIPSCO and the Urban League of Northwest Indiana have partnered for a fourth consecutive year to host the 2022 NIPSCO Energy Ambassador (NEA) Program. In support of the college and career readiness program, NIPSCO presented $60,000 to Urban League of NWI president Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud.
“We are proud to once again support the NEA program and impact scholars as they work toward their educational and career goals,” said Alexius Barber, NIPSCO Public Affairs Manager. “It is these types of partnerships that promote positive change, encourage our youth and make a difference in our communities.”
The program, slated to begin in June, will consist of virtual workshops and activities geared towards educating and encouraging professions in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). In addition, the rising Junior and Senior-level high schoolers will learn from NIPSCO leaders who volunteer their time to educate students about gas and electric safety as well as NIPSCO programs and offerings such as energy efficiency, energy assistance, the electric generation transition to renewable energy and more.
Last year, 35 students completed the virtual program and went on to serve as NIPSCO Energy Ambassadors by disseminating and presenting information to their respective communities to bring awareness about safety and NIPSCO customer programs.
“I have been afforded the opportunity to witness firsthand how the NIPSCO Energy Ambassador Program has benefited students by helping them evolve into confident young professionals and scholars,” said Dr. Vanessa Allen-McCloud, Urban League of NWI President. “We appreciate our long term partnership with NIPSCO and their continued support to further the goals of the NEA program and help us positively influence students throughout northwest Indiana.”
The primary goals of the NEA program are to:
- Expose students to STEM career options in energy as well as other career opportunities • Build self-confidence and social-emotional tenacity to support lifelong learning and personal success
- Expand community knowledge of NIPSCO’s commitment and support through NEA Student-Led Virtual Community Education Sessions
Parents of juniors and seniors enrolled in high schools throughout Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties are invited to apply for the NEA program at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CCR2022. Applications are currently being accepted through May 6, 2022.