Company contribution of $300,000 to nonprofit allows further access to STEM curriculum
CHICAGO — (BUSINESS WIRE) | Today, U.S. Cellular is announcing a renewal of its relationship with the nonprofit JASON Learning, an education-focused organization with headquarters based in Virginia. In its continued commitment to providing access to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education, U.S. Cellular donated $300,000 to support JASON Learning’s curriculum and initiatives.
Last year, U.S. Cellular worked with JASON Learning to create a custom STEM-focused design thinking challenge called “Connected Storm Sanctuary,” to inspire students to create a connected space for communities facing natural disasters. After introducing the challenge to students in Milwaukee and Tulsa, Okla., in 2018, the company is now expanding it to Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Chicago. U.S. Cellular’s contribution has the potential to offer high-quality STEM curricula to nearly 500,000 students for the 2019-2020 school year.
“While we continually look to provide the latest technology, exceptional service and a strong network to our customers, philanthropy and supporting local students remains at the core of who we are and what we stand for,” said Deirdre Drake, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at U.S. Cellular. “To be able to continue supporting STEM-focused education for our youth is what’s fair, and it’s exactly the impression we want to leave on our communities.”
Founded by Dr. Robert Ballard – the famed explorer and oceanographer who discovered the Titanic in 1985 – JASON Learning develops engaging, real, and rigorous award-winning curriculum for students from kindergarten through high school. Studies have shown that students who participate in these missions significantly improve academic achievement and attitudes toward STEM careers.
“As we continue to support the expansion of STEM education for students, we are thrilled to continue our collaboration with U.S. Cellular. The relationship has given us creative and engaging ways to ignite youth interest in STEM, so we can’t wait to see the process evolve even more,” said Eleanor Smalley, president and chief executive officer at JASON Learning.
U.S. Cellular has a longstanding commitment to the community and education. The company has contributed more than $14.5 million to K-12 education since 2009. In 2018, U.S. Cellular associates volunteered at more than 200 events and are committed to volunteering 35,000 hours in its local communities again in 2019.
About U.S. Cellular
U.S. Cellular is the fifth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.
About JASON Learning
Founded by Dr. Robert Ballard – the famed explorer and oceanographer who discovered the Titanic in 1985 – JASON Learning develops engaging, real, and rigorous award-winning curriculum for students from kindergarten through high school. Available online at jason.org, JASON’s award-winning curricula place students in challenging, real-world situations where they are connected with and mentored by leading STEM professionals. Learn more at www.JASON.org/.