Pictured above from left to right: FOSSI volunteers Sandra Szahun (AIChE), Adrienne Blanks (AIChE), Greg Hassler (Univar), Jennifer Taylor (ACC), LaToya Chatham (Nexpera), David Caraveo (Nexpera)
The 2026 Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI) application opened on Friday, September 26, at the HBCU Week College Fair in Wilmington, DE.
“We’re proud to continue expanding access to STEM education and opportunities in the chemical industry through FOSSI,” said Mark Costa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Eastman and FOSSI Chairman. “Launching the application at the HBCU Week College Fair allows us to connect directly with students who are passionate about STEM and eager to make a difference.”
Inspiring future FOSSI scholars
At the event, the FOSSI team and sponsor company representatives brought the program to life, sharing opportunities and inspiration with thousands of students, parents, educators, and HBCU representatives.
Also lending a helping hand was current FOSSI scholar sophomore Jaylah Mae Israel (Delaware State University ’28), who said, “I was excited to have the chance to share how FOSSI has impacted my journey as a student and offer valuable tips to prospective applicants. Experiences like this are a reminder of the power of service, representation, and creating opportunities for the next generation of scholars.”
DuPont innovation space
For the fifth consecutive year, FOSSI partner DuPont hosted an innovation space where students had the opportunity to interact with some of their latest products and technologies. Displays included DuPont Kevlar EXO, a high-performance material used by the military and law enforcement, Nomex personal protection garments, as well as DuPont Tyvek and Styrofoam products that are used as residential and commercial building weatherproofing and thermal performance materials.
Craig Holmes, DuPont’s Senior Architectural Building Envelope Specialist, shared his perspective: “This is my 4th year serving as the HBCU Week Committee Chairperson for DuPont. I’m always excited to work alongside such a passionate and diverse network of DuPont volunteers during the STEM Major Innovation Fair. Being able to contribute and provide academic enrichment initiatives to the next generation of college-bound students and STEM career professionals is a blessing and a highlight in my year.”
To date, FOSSI has raised over $40 million to fund more than 860 scholarships.
If you know any high school seniors who are eligible for the FOSSI scholarship, please encourage them to apply here! The application deadline is January 15, 2026.
Join us in shaping the future of STEM. Discover how your company can create a lasting impact on tomorrow’s leaders as a FOSSI sponsor.
Check out more photos from the 2026 HBCU Week College fair below!