WINTERVILLE—The Pitt Community College Foundation received a grant from the International Paper Foundation last month in support of the college’s Transitional Studies Department.
The $5,000-award will be used to purchase practice tests and vouchers for students to take High School Equivalency Tests and GED exams. It’s the second straight year International Paper has awarded a grant in support of Pitt’s Transitional Studies Department. In 2020, the company provided a $4,000-grant for PCC to purchase equipment Transitional Studies students needed to access online learning while campus was closed to the public due to the pandemic.
“We’re extremely grateful for International Paper’s support of Pitt Community College’s mission to educate and empower people for success,” said PCC Transitional Studies Director Laurie Weston. “Partnerships like the one we have with International Paper go a long way toward helping Transitional Studies students earn their credentials, enroll in PCC curricula, and ultimately become skilled members of the local workforce.”
Catherine Burgess, communications coordinator for International Paper’s New Bern Mill, says the grant exemplifies the company’s commitment to its signature causes, which include education, hunger, health and wellness, disaster relief and initiatives that improve the planet. The company, she said, is committed to addressing critical community needs where its employees live and work.
“At International Paper, we believe our company cannot succeed if our communities do not succeed,” Burgess said. “We are proud to support Pitt Community College as they make a positive impact on education throughout our community.”
Started in 1952, the International Paper Foundation is part of International Paper’s effort to be among the world’s most successful, sustainable and responsible companies. The organization provides millions in grants each year to help nonprofit groups address critical needs.
For more information on the International Paper Foundation, visit http://www.ipgiving.com.