With Alaska Airlines’ in-kind travel donation, geography is no longer a barrier to college and career preparedness in the nation’s largest state. In 2014 Alaska Airlines pledged $1 million to support STEM education for rural Alaskans by giving students free transportation to Alaska Native Science & Engineering Program components. The initial grant helped get students in sixth, seventh and eighth grade to Anchorage so they could participate in ANSEP’s Middle School Academy, held on campus at the University of Alaska Anchorage.
“Our goal is to make sure that as many students as possible who want to attend this program have the opportunity,” said Alaska Airlines Regional Vice President Alaska Marilyn Romano when the airline first formed its strategic partnership with ANSEP. “We know the skills these students gain by attending the ANSEP Middle School Academy will benefit their communities and the state of Alaska while preparing them for future success.”
Providing transportation for more than 650 students each year, Alaska Airlines made it possible for ANSEP to extend educational opportunities to more Alaskans and more communities across the state every year. Students have shown their gratitude and excitement for the many opportunities Alaska Airlines has provided.
Alaska Airlines announced it would continue helping ANSEP expand its reach by renewing its partnership with the program in 2017.
Following the 2017 announcement, ANSEP Founder & Vice Provost Dr. Herb Schroeder said, “Thanks to Alaska Airlines, we can expand our reach to more students across the state, and provide them with an unparalleled opportunity to engage in hands-on STEM activities while learning from industry and agency professionals.”
As the Last Frontier looks to the future, Alaska Airlines is making it brighter for many families and communities by continuing its partnership with ANSEP and bringing the program’s proven educational model to even more students. Learn more about Alaska Airlines’ values, including giving back to the communities they serve.
