Bank of America, a long-standing supporter of the African American Male Scholars Initiative (AAMSI) at Greenville Technical College (GTC), has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering academic success within the African American male community with a grant of $40,000. This brings the bank's total AAMSI contributions to an impressive $178,000 since 2019, reflecting their steadfast commitment to empowering and uplifting these scholars.
Bank of America's support will directly impact the educational journey of 20 AAMSI scholars. Furthermore, the bank's grants over the past four years have played a significant role in the positive outcomes achieved by every student who has graduated from the program to date.
Since first partnering with the Foundation in 1999, Bank of America has invested a remarkable $384,800 over two decades. These contributions clearly demonstrate their enduring dedication to the success of GTC students and the Upstate region.
The AAMSI Initiative was established by GTC in 2019 to address disproportionately low college graduation rates among African American males nationwide. It aims to provide robust academic and social support, foster inclusivity, cultivate leadership qualities, elevate graduation rates, and effect positive social and economic changes. Through comprehensive academic guidance, mentorship programs, resource connections, and enhanced educational opportunities, AAMSI empowers students and propels them towards a successful future.
As AAMSI scholar Marion Benson shares in this video interview, “With the brotherhood, they kept me in check with what I needed to do. It was like a second family, as a man and as a Black man […] to just to link up and do different projects with one another.”
Since its inception, AAMSI has enrolled 169 African American males, 75% of whom are the first in their families to attend college. Through the transformative impact of these students, AAMSI is not only shaping the future success of the current generation but also building a legacy for generations to come.
AAMSI participants demonstrate a higher level of persistence compared to the overall college population, particularly when transitioning from the Fall to Spring terms. Their commitment to academic excellence is evident through notable achievements such as being honored on the Dean's List and President's List. In fact, this distinction has now become an attainable goal for many participants, as evidenced by a remarkable 14 members receiving these prestigious accolades this spring.
“Our longstanding partnership with Greenville Technical College has helped advance economic opportunity for many individuals and families throughout our region,” said Stacy Brandon, president, Bank of America Upstate South Carolina. “This initiative is a proven way we can create meaningful pathways to education and future employment.”
Bank of America's continued support of AAMSI reflects the institution's unwavering commitment to fostering equality and empowerment within marginalized communities. By investing in these scholars, Bank of America is promoting inclusivity and educational opportunities that have the potential to transform lives and strengthen communities for years to come.
“The Greenville Tech Foundation has been a steadfast champion for AAMSI and student success across the board. The scholars in our program are well aware of the tremendous opportunity that comes from AAMSI,” said Michael Burgess, AAMSI Director.