AUSTIN - In the latest in a series of significant corporate donations, Huston-Tillotson College was awarded $50,000 from 3M Foundation's 2002 Vision Grant. The purpose of the grant is to document, for a virtual museum, the achievements and contributions of African Americans in Central Texas. The project is titled Reaching Back to Discover. Students and faculty will develop an interdisciplinary study course that will collect historical documentation on significant events affecting African Americans and highlight their accomplishments.

“This grant from 3M places Huston-Tillotson College before a world stage that spotlights the experience and expertise of our faculty and the readiness and enthusiasm of our students, said Dr. Larry L. Earvin, President of Huston-Tillotson. “In addition, this grant also brings us closer to our vision of creating an African American Resource Center for the community’s enlightenment and enjoyment.”

Since the Vision Grant program’s inception in 1987, more than $2.8 million has been awarded to 71 private colleges nationwide. Russell Bridges, Community Affairs Manager, 3M Austin, who served on the 3M Vision Grant Selection Committee said, “We think this is a fantastic program. It’s an exciting opportunity for 3M to support as students document the contributions of African Americans' role in Central Texas. Connecting history with cutting edge technology fits with our culture of innovation at 3M. And having a virtual museum is pretty cool.”

3M is a $16 billion diversified technology company with interests in electronics, telecommunications, industrial, consumer and office, health care, safety, and other markets. Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, the company has operations in nearly 200 countries.
3M’s Contributions Program is made up of cash and in-kind gifts and is bolstered by employee and retiree volunteerism. In 2001, the company donated more than $47 million to educational and charitable institutions.