PPG donates $5,000 to University of Alabama – Huntsville

The PPG Industries Foundation has donated $5,000 to the University of Alabama – Huntsville (UAH), which is using the grant to provide scholarships for its Girls’ Science and Engineering Day. The grant was made on behalf of PPG Industries’ aerospace business, which operates a manufacturing facility in Huntsville.

Girls’ Science and Engineering Day provides a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) workshops for elementary school-aged girls. The effort, which is completely supported through volunteer efforts, attracts about 500 participants each year and promotes the idea that it is “Cool to Be Smart,” which is the program’s tagline. The program was recognized in 2011 with a Bronze Medal for program excellence by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.

“We appreciate PPG’s support of Girls’ Science and Engineering Day, which aims to promote STEM education,” said Brenda Walker, assistant vice president for development at UAH. “With PPG’s help, we can offer scholarships to reach girls who otherwise couldn’t attend.”

In addition to the grant, members of the Southeast chapter of PPG’s Women’s Leadership Council volunteer at the event.

“Girls’ Science and Engineering Day provides an opportunity for PPG employees to share their passion for STEM subjects,” said Tom Meyer, PPG Huntsville plant manager. “PPG appreciates the opportunity to get girls excited about STEM and mentor UAH engineering students. We realize that by encouraging interest in STEM subjects today, we are helping to cultivate a generation of innovators for tomorrow.”