As part of Ferguson’s commitment to business diversity, technology and talent development, the company recently signed an agreement with Norfolk State University to provide students with business development education, internships, mentorships and other opportunities. The partnership was recently signed at the University’s Innovation Center in Norfolk, Virginia.

“I am proud to say that this is the first agreement of its kind with a historically black college and university (HBCU) for Ferguson,” said Cathy Williams, Ferguson’s business diversity and government administration manager. “We look forward to creating more of these partnerships with other HBCUs in Virginia and across the country to expand our reach for new business ideas and to attract new talent to continue to grow our company.”

“This is a great opportunity to support and encourage tomorrow’s industry leaders through partnering with innovative academic institutions such as Norfolk State,” said Mike Sajor, Ferguson’s chief information officer. “We are stronger together. Everyone – associates, customers, partners, vendors and investors play an active part in who we are today and who we will be in the future. We are grateful for the opportunity this partnership represents, as it aligns precisely with our desire to ensure our workforce for the future is diverse and possesses the skills needed to power Ferguson’s, and our customers’, future successes.”

Mike and Dr. Javaune Adams-Gatson, president of Norfolk State University, signed the agreement, which includes the following:

• A three-day pitch event in partnership with the Business Diversity department and Ferguson Ventures
• A 12-week series for students on business strategies, innovation and automation
• Potential internship opportunities
• A year-round mentorship program with Ferguson Technology

Glenn Carrington, dean of NSU’s School of Business, said the agreement will help students be ready to thrive before and after graduation.

“To be first-day ready we need communication skills, we need problem-solving skills, we need interpersonal skills, and we need to know what the industry wants our students to have when it comes down to technology,” he said. “Those are the things we will figure out from having this partnership with Ferguson, so I’m very excited.”