LyondellBasell’s Chocolate Bayou Site Donates Thousands of Dollars to Support STEM Education
June 10, 2019
Investing in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education initiatives is important to the development of future scientists, engineers and innovators for companies like LyondellBasell. That’s why the company’s Chocolate Bayou site recently donated $6,500 to support STEM education at Alvin Community College (ACC) and Danbury Independent School District (DISD).
“Success in STEM has become increasingly important for our industry and nation,” said Yarelis Hernandez, Chocolate Bayou site manager. “In order to build a local pipeline of talent – whether they go on to work for us or another company – it is critical to prepare students now. We take pride in supporting these initiatives that have and will continue to greatly impact and shape the world around us – science is everywhere, and technology will continue expanding into every aspect of our lives.”
Since 2013, the plant has given approximately $37,000 to support STEM education at ACC. The college will use the latest funds to enhance its process technology program, which includes providing ten to 20 scholarships. The college’s process technology program prepares students to become process technicians in the refining, petrochemical, power generation, oil and gas production, food, metals, minerals, and other process industries.
“Process technicians are in great demand in the Gulf Coast area, across the U.S. and in many other countries,” said Dr. Christal M. Albrecht, Alvin Community College president. “Partners like LyondellBasell contribute to the success of our program.”
With the donated funds, DISD teachers will purchase software for classrooms that can serve as an online resource including a digital textbook. The digital textbook uses videos, animations and interactive activities organized by the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) for science to help elevate student understanding of science topics.
“Through the donation from LyondellBasell, we are able to offer our teachers access to a program they otherwise would not have access to,” said Celia Lewis, Danbury ISD Education Foundation executive director. “The more STEM resources we can provide our instructors increase the quality of information and lessons for students.”
For more information about how LyondellBasell’s Chocolate Bayou site supports surrounding communities, visit www.lyb.com/chocolatebayou.
Media Contact: Chevalier Gray (O) 713-309-4561 (M) 346-217-2346 chevalier.gray@lyb.com