Transportation

STEM Majors Awarded $25,000 Per Year for College

Published

11 years ago

June 10, 2015

Oakland Post

Morgan Grayned, a recipient of the Buick Achievers scholarship from Hampton University (Freddie Allen/NNPA Photo)

By Freddie Allen
NNPA Senior Washington Correspondent

WASHINGTON (NNPA) – When Morgan Grayned opened the envelope from the Buick Achievers’ scholarship program and learned that she would receive $24,000 a year to attend college, she screamed and danced and ran around her house with the letter.

She posted it on Facebook. Her mom called the scholarship a blessing.

Grayned applied for the scholarship less than a week before high school graduation with limited expectations. That was four years ago. Recently, Grayned, 22, graduated magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in finance from Hampton University on Mother’s Day, a great gift for her mom, a single parent who had wholeheartedly supported her throughout her entire academic career.

“Coming from a single parent household, I just knew that I needed assistance to [pay] for college,” said Grayned. “I knew that I was going to go regardless, I just wasn’t sure how I was going to pay for it. The biggest thing for me with having the Buick Achievers’ scholarship is the fact that I didn’t have financial stress.”

Grayned joined the Sigma Beta Delta Business Honor Society and Ebony Fire, Hampton’s dance troupe, where she was team captain her senior year.

The Stone Mountain, Ga. native said that traveling with the football team and performing with the band were great experiences and provided a creative outlet while helping her to hone her leadership skills.

Those experiences may not have been possible without the Buick Achievers’ scholarship she received four years ago. The General Motors Foundation started the scholarship program in 2011 in an effort to increase the pipeline of students flowing into careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). A 2013 study on STEM jobs conducted by the Census Bureau reported that Blacks account for just 6 percent of the STEM workforce even though they make up 11 percent of the labor market in the U.S.

Karen Nicklin, the manager of educational initiatives at the GM Foundation said that the group targeted first generation students, veterans and children of veterans, children from diverse backgrounds and students from low-income households in an effort ensure that that a quality education was affordable and accessible to more students. Since the program’s inception, 3400 students have received nearly $28 million in scholarships to attend college.

“Students can receive up $25,000 dollars and the scholarships are renewable for up to five years for some eligible majors,” said Nicklin. “Those eligible majors are all STEM or automotive-related majors.”

Last year, 15 percent of the Buick Achievers scholarship class was Black. Applicants for the scholarship have to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year college or university based in the United States or Puerto Rico for the entire 2015–16 academic year. There are more than 40 majors that are eligible through the program, including computers science, graphic design, finance and chemical engineering. A full list of majors and eligibility requirements is available at www.BuickAchievers.com.

“Awards are renewable for the given years noted above or until a bachelor’s degree is earned, whichever occurs first. Renewal is contingent upon maintaining a cumulative 3.0 grade point average (on a 4.0 scale), full-time enrollment and continuing to major in an eligible field of study,” according to the program’s website.

Grayned credited the program for providing opportunities for Black students to attend historically, Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) continuing a legacy started by their parents or starting a new one in a nurturing and culturally-rich environment unique to Black colleges.

She said that she was able to find a lot of minority scholarships to attend predominately White institutions (PWIs), but resources for an African American student to go to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) were harder to come by.

Grayned also said that HBCUs provided students Black students the opportunity to grow in a nurturing environment and experience campus life unique to Black colleges. Grayned’s mother, who graduated from Spelman College in 1989 with an economics degree, encouraged her to go into an HBCU. Although she was accepted to Spelman, she chose Hampton University instead.

She stumbled across the scholarship days before she finished high school said that she was grateful to have the opportunity to be in the first wave of Buick Achievers to graduate.

Nicklin said that the GM Foundation and the Buick Achievers Scholarship program has worked with the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the United Negro College Fund to get the word out about the scholarship program.

Paulette Jackson, the vice president of development at UNCF, said that General Motors was one of the original sponsors for group, supporting a number of events across the nation including an “Evening with the Stars” and also which was once known as “The Lou Rawls Parade of Stars.”

Jackson said that the Buick Achievers Scholarship is a need-based scholarship and students that come to UNCF often have extreme needs. Jackson said that students can find more information about the Buick Achievers scholarship and more than 400 other plans managed by the nonprofit group at www.UNCF.org.

The group also promotes the unique scholarship opportunity through their traveling “Empower Me Tour” that provides high school students with tips for succeeding in college and career readiness exercises for undergraduates.

As the country’s infrastructure ages and the global technology industry continues to evolve, Jackson said that the U.S. needs more people getting into STEM-related fields. The country is going to need more people to getting involved in STEM-related fields.

The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, a coalition of more than 200 advocacy and outreach groups, reported that that less than 3 percent of Blacks have earned STEM-related degrees by the age of 24.

“The students will have to be able to function, not just in the U.S. but abroad as well,” said Jackson. “Opportunities are going to be massive, but students have to have the education in order to meet those challenges. STEM is going to be a major way that African American students can get viable jobs that are going to be around for a long, long time.”

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Starting This Summer, California Car Buyers Can Get an Instant $3500 Off the Cost of Electric Vehicles

OAKLAND POST — Beginning later this summer, eligible Californians can receive a $3,500 rebate on new zero-emission vehicles with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of up to $50,000. Buyers purchasing qualifying used electric vehicles priced at up to $25,000 can receive a $1,750 rebate. The rebate will be applied directly at participating dealerships, allowing buyers to receive the discount immediately instead of waiting for reimbursement.

Published

3 weeks ago

July 26, 2026

bpusa-syndication

By Bo Tefu, California Black Media

California residents purchasing their first zero-emission vehicle will soon be eligible for an instant rebate of up to $3,500 under a new state program aimed at making electric vehicles more affordable.

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill (SB) 168 on July 16, creating the MyFirstEV program as part of California’s 2026-27 state budget. The initiative dedicates $135.5 million in state funding for point-of-sale rebates, which participating automakers will match dollar for dollar. State officials said the combined investment will provide $270 million in savings for first-time electric vehicle buyers.

Beginning later this summer, eligible Californians can receive a $3,500 rebate on new zero-emission vehicles with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of up to $50,000. Buyers purchasing qualifying used electric vehicles priced at up to $25,000 can receive a $1,750 rebate. The rebate will be applied directly at participating dealerships, allowing buyers to receive the discount immediately instead of waiting for reimbursement.

“With our new instant rebate program for electric vehicles, we’re making it easier for families to drive clean, breathe clean, and keep more money in their pockets,” Newsom said in a statement.

The MyFirstEV program is part of a broader $600 million investment in California’s clean transportation economy included in the state budget. The funding package also provides $150 million for the Community Air Protection Program, $19.8 million for the Clean Cars 4 All program for lower-income residents, $35 million for clean off-road equipment through the Air Quality Improvement Program, $135.5 million for the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project, and $130 million for the Carl Moyer Program to replace older heavy-duty engines with cleaner alternatives.

According to the governor’s office, the transportation investments are funded through Cap-and-Invest revenue and smog-abatement fees while maintaining a balanced state budget.

California continues to expand its zero-emission transportation network. The state surpassed 2.5 million cumulative zero-emission vehicle sales earlier this year, exceeding its original goal of 1.5 million sales by 2025. Officials also reported that California has more than 200,000 public and shared electric vehicle charging plugs statewide, in addition to an estimated 800,000 home charging stations.

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Featured

What Are the Five Pillars of Road Safety?

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — What makes road safety crucial in 2026? Investigate the pivotal measures communities are adopting to ensure public safety on roads. Get insights now!

Published

1 month ago

July 18, 2026

bpusa-syndication

Road safety is becoming one of today’s biggest public priorities

Road safety is becoming a growing public priority as communities invest in safer infrastructure, advanced vehicle technology, public education, and smarter enforcement to help reduce crashes and protect everyone who uses the road.

Every day, millions of Americans travel by car, walk through neighborhoods, ride bicycles, or use public transportation. Whether someone is driving, cycling, walking, or taking a bus, everyone shares a responsibility for making roads safer.

Although fatalities have continued to decline from recent highs, thousands of lives are still lost each year, keeping traffic safety firmly in the public spotlight. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that about 39,000 people died in traffic crashes in 2024.

Communities are responding with greater awareness, safer road designs, and renewed attention to everyday driving habits that reduce the risk of serious crashes.

What Are the Five Pillars of Road Safety?

Road safety doesn’t depend on one solution. Experts generally agree that reducing crashes requires improvements across several areas, from better road design to safer driving habits.

The five pillars focus on:

Road safety management
Safer roads and infrastructure
Safer vehicles
Safer road users
Effective post-crash response

Together, these areas provide a practical framework for:

Reducing crashes
Preventing serious injuries
Making travel safer for everyone

Communities Are Investing in Safer Roads and Transportation Infrastructure

The way streets, intersections, and crossings are designed influences how safely drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians move through an area. That’s why many communities continue to invest in projects that make everyday travel safer.

Common improvements include:

Better marked crosswalks
Traffic calming measures
Protected bike lanes
Improved street lighting
Upgraded traffic signals
Safer intersections
More visible road signs

These projects can be found on neighborhood streets as well as major roads. While they take time to complete, each improvement helps create a safer environment for everyone who travels:

By car
By bicycle
By public transportation
On foot

School Zones Continue To Receive Greater Safety Attention

School zones remain a major focus of road safety efforts because they bring together young pedestrians, school buses, cyclists, and heavy traffic at the busiest times of the day.

Many communities are lowering speed limits during school hours, improving crosswalk visibility, upgrading sidewalks, and adding flashing signs or crossing guards where needed. These measures encourage drivers to slow down and stay alert where children are most likely to be present.

Creating safer routes to and from school continues to be an important part of protecting children and improving everyday road safety.

Advanced Vehicle Safety Technology Is Becoming More Common

Modern vehicles include more safety features than ever before. While no technology can prevent every crash, many systems help drivers recognize hazards sooner or reduce the severity of a collision.

The common safety technologies being built into cars are:

Automatic emergency braking
Blind spot monitoring
Lane departure warnings
Adaptive cruise control
Rear cross traffic alerts
Driver attention monitoring
Parking and surround view cameras

Automotive safety features work best alongside responsible driving habits, providing an extra layer of protection when unexpected situations arise on the road.

Traffic Enforcement Is Becoming More Data-Driven

Communities are using crash data to better understand where collisions happen most often and where additional safety measures may be needed.

The findings can shape decisions about:

Speed enforcement
Traffic signal timing
School zones
Pedestrian crossings

Rather than taking the same approach everywhere, attention can be focused on locations with the greatest need.

The goal is simple: reduce crashes before they happen by directing resources where they can have the greatest impact.

Public Education Campaigns Are Promoting Safer Road Behavior

Public education campaigns encourage people to make better decisions every time they travel, whether they’re driving, cycling, or walking. Many campaigns focus on simple reminders such as:

Avoiding distracted driving
Wearing seat belts
Following speed limits
Watching for pedestrians and cyclists
Driving sober

Small changes in everyday behavior can make a meaningful difference over time. When more people understand the risks and develop safer habits, everyone benefits from a safer transportation system.

Knowing Your Rights Matters After a Serious Road Accident

Even with safer roads, improved vehicle technology, and greater public awareness, serious crashes can still happen. When they do, knowing what steps to take next becomes just as important as understanding how to stay safe.

Seeking medical attention, documenting the scene when possible, and understanding your legal rights can help people make informed decisions during a stressful time.

Individuals with questions about injuries caused by another person’s negligence may also choose to speak with Shull + Klenda personal injury lawyers to better understand the options available to them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Road Traffic Accidents Still So Common?

Road accidents happen for many reasons, including:

Speeding
Distracted driving
Impaired driving
Poor weather
Driver fatigue

Even small mistakes can have serious consequences, making safer travel an ongoing public priority.

Who Are the Most Vulnerable Road Users?

Pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and children are among the most vulnerable because they have less physical protection than people inside vehicles. Many safety improvements are designed with these road users in mind.

How Can Communities Make Residential Streets Safer?

Better lighting, clearly marked crosswalks, lower speed limits where appropriate, traffic calming measures, and school zone improvements can all make residential streets safer. Community feedback also helps identify areas where additional improvements may be needed.

Why Is Defensive Driving Important?

Defensive driving encourages motorists to stay alert, anticipate potential hazards, and leave enough space to react when unexpected situations arise. These habits can reduce the likelihood of collisions even when other road users make mistakes.

What Should You Do If You’re Injured in a Road Accident?

Your priority should always be getting medical attention. It’s also important to document the incident when possible, report the accident if required, and understand your legal rights before making decisions about the next steps.

Road Safety Remains a Shared Responsibility

Road safety banks on more than traffic laws or new technology. Thoughtful planning, responsible driving, and informed decisions all play a role in protecting drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians every day.

Discover more local stories, transportation updates, and public safety news on our site.

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Alameda County

Ferry Fares to Increase July 1 as Ridership Hits Record Highs

The Oakland and Alameda routes will increase from $4.90 to $5.10, the South San Francisco route will go up from $7.40 to $7.60, and the Vallejo route will increase from $9.90 to $10.

Published

2 months ago

June 24, 2026

Oakland Post

Courtesy photo.

By Mike Aldax, The Richmond Standard

Starting July 1, the standard adult fare for the San Francisco Bay Ferry route between Richmond and San Francisco will increase to $5.20, up from the current $4.90.

Discounted fares for eligible passengers, including youth, seniors, people with disabilities, and Clipper START users, will rise to $2.60 from the current $2.40. Children under 5 will continue to ride for free.

The Oakland and Alameda routes will increase from $4.90 to $5.10, the South San Francisco route will go up from $7.40 to $7.60, and the Vallejo route will increase from $9.90 to $10.

The adjustments are part of a systemwide fare update approved by the agency’s Board of Directors, which is moving away from a flat 3% annual increase to route-specific pricing for the 2027 and 2028 fiscal years.

This fare update arrives as San Francisco Bay Ferry celebrates a historic May, transporting 301,270 passengers. The record-breaking figure represents an 8% increase over May 2025 and marks the third consecutive month of record-setting ridership.

Furthermore, it is the sixth month in a row that passenger numbers have exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Weekend travel has been a primary driver of this growth, with average weekend ridership seeing a 56% increase compared to pre-pandemic trends.

The agency states that the fare adjustments are necessary to ensure the long-term fiscal sustainability of public ferry services. By shifting to route-specific adjustments, the agency aims to offset rising operating costs while maintaining the high levels of service frequency and reliability.