Entergy Nuclear presents $50,000 to Alcorn State University
Shymika McGrew and Augustin Avouwadan present check on behalf of Entergy
Alcorn State University’s health physics program received a $50,000 boost from Entergy recently to advance learning opportunities for future nuclear power plant workers. Representatives of Entergy’s Grand Gulf Nuclear Station presented the donation during ASU’s pregame homecoming show Nov. 7. An additional $15,000 was also awarded in other grants for STEM camps.
This partnership between ASU and Entergy is longstanding, with Entergy Nuclear investing in ASU’s health physics program yearly. The effort is designed to help local students enroll in nuclear programs, allowing Mississippi residents to learn and train for local jobs at Grand Gulf and other Entergy Nuclear plants.
“As a graduate of this program, it’s great to see that it is still being utilized and invested in,” said Justin Rice, senior radiation protection and chemistry manager at Grand Gulf Nuclear Station. “This partnership exemplifies how industry and education can work together to develop exceptional talent and drive long-term growth.”
In 2007, Entergy Nuclear collaborated with the NRC and ASU to develop the only radiation-related program in the state of Mississippi. Over the years, the program expanded extensively in the areas of student enrollment and research capacities.
Over the years, professional organizations like the Health Physics Society have recognized the ASU-Entergy alliance as a model for the country, because once students graduate, they can sustain a career in the nuclear workforce. Today, multiple ASU graduates have careers in Grand Gulf’s radiation protection and health physics programs.
