Budweiser has partnered with the United Negro College Fund to launch the Natalie Johnson Scholarship. Through the scholarship fund, 25 students will earn annual $4,000 scholarships. Also, five scholars will receive an internship with the company along with a $6,000 grant towards their final year of college.
“Anheuser-Busch has a strong foundation when it comes to addressing issues of racial inequality by promoting fundamental civil rights, education opportunities, and economic empowerment within the Black community,” Monica Rustgi of Budweiser said.
“We’re proud of a 40+ year partnership with the UNCF in support of Black Americans, and we want to do even more to advance economic empowerment in the future."
The company also debuted a taped conversation between NBA Champion Dwyane Wade and the scholarship's namesake, Natalie Johnson. Johnson is best known as the first Black woman to earn the title of "brewmaster" at Budweiser. Together, they talk about business, diversity and the evolution of the brewing industry.
“I walked through the doors of Anheuser-Busch as an intern, excited and nervous! With lots of hard work and a desire to learn, I eventually became the first black female Senior Brewmaster of our first and largest brewery,” Johnson said.
“Today, I am delighted and honored to continue forging a path for young people who can see themselves in my journey. There is still much to do, and I am immensely proud to be at a company that believes in diversity and is leading the way to bring about change.”
This scholarship is just the latest partnership between Budweiser and UNCF. Since 2011, Budweiser has offered more than $2.5 million in scholarship funds to the organization. The two sides will continue their fruitful partnership this academic year with the Natalie Johnson Scholarship.
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