Roanoke Rapids, N.C. — The Center for Energy Education welcomed representatives from the SECU Foundation on June 17 for a special check presentation recognizing a $40,000 Mission Development Grant awarded in support of the Center’s educational and community-based programming.
The grant will help the Center for Energy Education continue expanding access to high-quality STEM education, workforce development opportunities, summer camps, teacher support, and hands-on learning experiences for students, educators, and community members across North Carolina.
SECU Foundation representatives Parker Patterson and Caitlyn Duke presented the ceremonial check during a visit to the Center. Local SECU Branch employees, including Jennifer Clemmons and Dana Ferguson, also attended the presentation and toured the Center to learn more about its programs, facilities, and community impact.
The Mission Development Grant reflects SECU Foundation’s continued commitment to strengthening nonprofit organizations and supporting programs that serve communities throughout North Carolina. “Our core focus areas are education, housing, human services, and health care,” said Parker Patterson, SECU Foundation representative during the check presentation.
“Over the last 22 years, we have been able to fund more than $340 million in grants, scholarships, and loans throughout the state.” During the visit, SECU Foundation representatives learned more about the Center’s work in renewable energy education, hands-on STEM programming, youth development, and workforce pathways connected to the energy sector.
“You all are really doing something special here,” said Caitlyn Duke, SECU Foundation representative during the check presentation. “This is something unique to our state. I don’t think there is any place like this across our 100 counties.”
Mozine Lowe, Executive Director of the Center for Energy Education, said the grant will help the organization continue building programs that prepare students and communities for future opportunities.
“We are grateful to the SECU Foundation for investing in the mission and work of the Center for Energy Education,” Lowe said. “This support allows us to continue providing meaningful educational experiences that introduce students, educators, and community members to innovation, STEM learning, and the growing opportunities connected to energy and workforce development.”
The Center for Energy Education provides educational programs, workshops, tours, summer camps, teacher resources, and workforce development experiences designed to inspire learning and increase awareness of energy, science, technology, and environmental topics. Through partnerships with schools, community organizations, industry leaders, and supporters such as the SECU Foundation, the Center continues working to expand educational access and prepare the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers.