Chemical and ingredient distributor Univar Solutions announced its engagement in the Future of STEM Scholars Initiative (FOSSI), the chemical industry's collaborative equity, diversity, and inclusion initiative aimed at creating pathways for more underrepresented groups to enter and succeed in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers in the chemical industry.

FOSSI is a national scholarship program which provides incoming college freshman $40,000 scholarships and connects them to leadership development, mentoring and internship opportunities at sponsoring companies.

"FOSSI brings together the industry's collective might to make a significant impact on the future of the chemical industry. We are thrilled to have support from Univar Solutions in this important initiative and look forward to working with their team to create opportunities and pathways for success for these deserving scholars," said Chris Jahn, president & chief executive officer of the American Chemistry Council.

"As a place where people matter, Univar Solutions believes that everyone deserves the chance to make a difference and I couldn't be more pleased to offer our support toward the future leaders of our industry," said David Jukes, President & Chief Executive Officer of Univar Solutions. "FOSSI is a tremendous program that will enable our society to thrive for generations to come as it's our people that make the difference and our purpose that drives us to help keep our communities healthy, fed, clean and safe."

FOSSI creates lasting and meaningful relationships between students and sponsors, helping to create a diverse pipeline of future workforce talent. FOSSI has an ambitious goal of supporting 1000 scholars through 2025, at an investment of nearly $50 million dollars.