Community
bp invests in future talent with HBCU Fellowship Program
- Donation of $4.05 million to three historically Black colleges and universities
- Provides 45 full scholarships to students interested in the energy sector
- Builds on bp’s aim for greater diversity, equity and inclusion for its workforce and customers
HOUSTON, Feb. 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — bp announced today it is investing $4.05 million in three historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) to provide students with scholarship funding, exposure to the energy industry, and career development experience.
As part of bp’s new HBCU Fellowship Program, Florida A&M University, North Carolina A&T University, and Prairie View A&M University will each receive $1.35 million, covering five full scholarships per year at each school for three years – a total of 45 full scholarships during that period. Students who successfully complete the program will be provided with opportunities for additional development, including internships.
Mark Crawford, bp’s senior vice president, global diversity, equity and inclusion, said: “We need the best and the brightest talent as we transform our company. We are thrilled to work with these great universities and provide students with an opportunity to earn a degree while giving them real-world experience in the exciting and evolving energy sector.”
The donation builds on bp’s aim for greater diversity, equity and inclusion for its workforce and customers. The company has taken steps in recent years to develop a global framework for action to guide its efforts in the areas of talent, accountability, and transparency. As a result, it has launched gender and minority ambitions and designed programs supporting the development of ethnic minority talent.
Dave Lawler, bp America chairman and president, said: “Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion goes beyond just words. It’s our actions that define us, and this program will help us develop a consistent pipeline of talent for the future. This is another example of how we’re driving change across bp and building a culture that gives everyone an opportunity to succeed.”
The three universities are part of bp’s talent acquisition portfolio, and the company has successfully recruited talent from each school.
Florida A&M University President Larry Robinson, Ph.D., said: “I want to commend bp for crafting a program that complements our goal to prepare the next generation of scientists, engineers and business executives for this key industry. This partnership will provide Florida A&M University students with internships, scholarships and, ultimately career opportunities allowing them to prosper while addressing important challenges that we face as a society.”
North Carolina A&T Chancellor Harold L. Martin Sr. said: “North Carolina A&T is proud to be a catalyst for success by preparing well-trained graduates to fuel the energy sector and its essential infrastructure. We are happy to partner with bp, a corporation demonstrating its commitment to establishing, maintaining and growing a talent pipeline. We know that investing in education results in economic growth and civic engagement that fosters innovative solutions to global challenges.”
Specific, consistent criteria for student selection was created and agreed upon by bp and the selected universities. Scholarships will be open to all US students on each campus who have an interest in the energy sector, a minimum grade point average of 3.0, and are in good standing.
Prairie View A&M President Dr. Ruth Simmons said: “bp’s commitment aligns with Prairie View A&M University’s focus on preparing today’s students for leadership in the most vital sectors of our global economy and future. We are honored to have this opportunity to partner with bp. The HBCU Fellowship Program aids us in ensuring that our promising students, across some of our most dynamic degree programs, have the opportunity to gain real-world experience throughout their collegiate careers and access mentorship inside the sector – all while alleviating the financial burden of their education.”
Applications for the program will open in the first quarter of 2023, with students notified in April of a final decision. A committee consisting of university faculty will select the final recipients with input from bp.
About bp
bp’s ambition is to become a net zero company by 2050 or sooner, and to help the world get to net zero. bp has a larger economic footprint in the United States than anywhere else in the world, investing more than $140 billion since 2005 and supporting about 245,000 jobs. For more information on bp in the US, visit www.bp.com/us.
About Florida A&M University
Founded October 3, 1887, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) is a public, historically Black university located in Tallahassee, Florida. FAMU’s 14 colleges and schools offer a total of 54 bachelor’s degrees, 29 master’s degrees, three professional degrees and 12 doctoral degrees. FAMU is part of the State University System of Florida and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. In addition to the main Tallahassee campus, FAMU has several satellite campuses across Florida. These include the College of Law in Orlando and the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, which has sites in Crestview, Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami.
About North Carolina A&T State University
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University is the nation’s largest historically Black university, as well as its top ranked (Money magazine, Best Colleges; Washington Monthly College Guide and Rankings). It is a land-grant, doctoral university, classified as “high research” by the Carnegie Foundation and a constituent member of the University of North Carolina System. A&T is known for its leadership in producing graduates in engineering, agriculture and other STEM fields. The university was founded in 1891 and is located in Greensboro, North Carolina.
About Prairie View A&M University
Prairie View A&M University, founded in 1876, is the second oldest public institution of higher education in the state of Texas and the third largest Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in the nation. Designated as an “institution of the first class” in the Texas Constitution, the enrollment exceeds 9,000 students, and over 80,000 graduates. PVAMU offers academic programs through its seven colleges, Undergraduate Studies, and the School of Architecture, boasting degree options leading to bachelor’s to doctoral-level degrees. A Carnegie-classified high-research (R2) University, and a member of The Texas A&M University System, PVAMU is dedicated to fulfilling its land-grant mission of achieving excellence in teaching, research, and service. For more information, visit www.pvamu.edu.
SOURCE bp America
Entertainment
Miranda Lambert to Launch Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaign at Cowboys Thanksgiving Game
Miranda Lambert will headline the Dallas Cowboys’ Thanksgiving halftime show, launching The Salvation Army’s 2026 Red Kettle Campaign and celebrating 30 years of charitable giving.
Country music superstar Miranda Lambert will headline the Dallas Cowboys’ Thanksgiving halftime show, celebrating 30 years of music, football, and charitable giving.
FRISCO, Texas — October 26, 2026 — Three-time Grammy Award-winning country music star Miranda Lambert will take center stage at AT&T Stadium this Thanksgiving as the Dallas Cowboys host the Philadelphia Eagles, helping kick off The Salvation Army’s 136th annual Red Kettle Campaign.
The nationally televised halftime performance will mark the 30th anniversary of the Cowboys’ Thanksgiving partnership with The Salvation Army, a tradition that combines football and entertainment to raise awareness and support for families facing financial hardship.
The Thanksgiving Day game is scheduled for November 26, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. Central Time (4:30 p.m. Eastern)and will air on FOX.
Three Decades of Music and Giving
Since its introduction in 1997, the Red Kettle Kickoff has become a Thanksgiving tradition, featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Country music legend Reba McEntire performed at the inaugural event. Over the years, performers have included Destiny’s Child, Carrie Underwood, the Jonas Brothers, Selena Gomez, Dolly Parton, Lainey Wilson, and Post Malone.
According to The Salvation Army, the annual campaign has raised more than $3.4 billion over the past three decades, supporting essential community services nationwide.
Lambert, a Texas native, expressed excitement about participating in the event.
“There’s something special about how music brings people together, especially when it’s to spread joy and hope to families who need it most,” Lambert said in the announcement.
Supporting Communities Beyond the Holidays
Although the familiar red kettles are most visible during the holiday shopping season, donations help support The Salvation Army’s year-round programs.
These services include emergency food assistance, temporary housing, eviction prevention, addiction rehabilitation, disaster relief, and youth development programs.
The organization reports providing more than 28 million service touchpoints in 2025, operating through nearly 7,600 centers across the United States.
One important aspect of the Red Kettle Campaign is its local impact. According to The Salvation Army, donations collected in a community remain in that community to support residents facing difficult circumstances.
A Thanksgiving Tradition With a Purpose
The Cowboys’ partnership with The Salvation Army began through the efforts of Charlotte Jones, the team’s chief brand officer and co-owner.
Jones helped transform the team’s nationally televised Thanksgiving halftime show into an opportunity to encourage charitable giving.
Thirty years later, the tradition continues to connect millions of football viewers with opportunities to support their neighbors.
Commissioner Merle Heatwole, national commander of The Salvation Army, emphasized the campaign’s community mission.
“The Red Kettle Campaign gives people a simple way to spread joy and support their neighbors in need,” Heatwole said.
How to Help
As the holiday season approaches, The Salvation Army encourages individuals and families to participate by donating, volunteering, or supporting local assistance programs.
Those interested in contributing or seeking assistance can visit the organization’s official website.
Learn more: The Salvation Army
The 2026 Red Kettle Kickoff serves as a reminder that Thanksgiving is not only about football, family gatherings, and entertainment. It is also an opportunity to support people in our communities who need a helping hand.
Editorial note: The $3.4 billion fundraising figure and the 2025 service statistics are attributed to The Salvation Army. The 28 million figure represents service touchpoints, not necessarily 28 million unique individuals.
Source and related links
Original announcement: The Salvation Army’s October 25 press release
Official charity website: The Salvation Army USA
Multimedia release: Miranda Lambert Red Kettle Kickoff announcement
About STM Daily News — Community
At STM Daily News, we believe that strong communities are built through compassion, service, and people making a positive difference.
Our Community section highlights nonprofit organizations, charitable initiatives, volunteers, and everyday individuals working to improve lives.
Stay connected with stories that inform, inspire, and strengthen our communities at STM Daily News.
Source: The Salvation Army, October 25, 2026, official news release.
Community
Mariska Hargitay and Purina Team Up to Help Domestic Violence Survivors Keep Their Pets Safe
Mariska Hargitay and Purina are raising awareness about a heartbreaking reality: Many domestic violence survivors delay escaping abuse because they cannot bring their pets. Discover how the Purple Leash Project is helping families and animals find safety together.
Purple Leash Project takes center stage at U.S. Women’s National Team match, raising awareness about a heartbreaking choice facing abuse survivors and their beloved pets.
By STM Daily News | Lifestyle & Pets | October 12, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. — For many people, pets are more than companions. They’re family, providing comfort, unconditional love, and emotional support during life’s most difficult moments. But for survivors of domestic violence, the bond with a beloved pet can create an unexpected obstacle when trying to escape an abusive environment.
Actress and longtime domestic violence advocate Mariska Hargitay joined Purina and the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team on October 10, 2026, to shine a spotlight on this often-overlooked issue.
During the team’s match against Spain at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., Hargitay served as Purina’s Honorary Captain, helping promote the company’s Purple Leash Project, an initiative designed to help domestic violence survivors find safety without leaving their pets behind.
The appearance was part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, observed every October.
When Escaping Abuse Means Leaving a Pet Behind
For someone experiencing domestic violence, leaving an abusive relationship can be dangerous and emotionally overwhelming. The situation becomes even more complicated when pets are involved.
According to statistics cited by Purina:
- Only 20% of domestic violence shelters allow pets.
- 48% of survivors delay leaving an abusive situation because they cannot take their pets with them.
These figures illustrate a significant barrier to safety.
For survivors whose pets provide emotional stability and companionship, the possibility of abandoning an animal can be devastating. Some may also fear that an abusive partner will harm a pet left behind.
The Purple Leash Project seeks to eliminate that difficult choice by helping domestic violence shelters become more accommodating to animals.
What Is the Purple Leash Project?
The Purple Leash Project is a partnership between Purina and RedRover, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping animals and strengthening the human-animal bond.
Through grants and financial assistance, the initiative supports domestic violence shelters and social service organizations by funding:
- Renovations that make shelters pet-friendly.
- On-site and off-site housing for survivors’ pets.
- Essential pet supplies and accommodations.
- Necessary veterinary services for animals entering shelter programs.
According to Purina, the initiative has already provided nearly 70 grants totaling more than $2.2 million across over 30 states.
The company has also established a goal of helping provide one million safe nights for survivors and their pets by the end of 2030.
The ultimate objective is simple: Nobody should have to choose between personal safety and protecting a beloved animal.
Mariska Hargitay Brings the Message to the Soccer Field
Hargitay, widely recognized for portraying Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, has spent years advocating for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Her participation in the U.S. Women’s National Team event brought additional visibility to the Purple Leash Project.
During the pre-match ceremonies, Hargitay participated in the ceremonial coin toss alongside Cassidy, a 75-pound Golden Retriever therapy dog, and Cassidy’s handler, Patrice “Pat” Eller.
Cassidy and Eller are part of a Pet Partners therapy team that helps provide comfort to children who may be required to testify in court.
Their presence illustrated the important role animals can play in helping people cope with traumatic experiences.
“Seeing the Purple Leash Project take the field helped turn the stadium into a powerful show of support for survivors and the pets they love,” Hargitay said in a statement released by Purina.
She also emphasized the importance of reducing the stigma surrounding domestic violence and creating more safe spaces where survivors and their pets can recover together.
A Special Soccer Scarf Supporting Survivors and Pets
To encourage fans to participate in the initiative, Purina and U.S. Soccer introduced a limited-edition Courageous & Comfy Soccer Scarf.
The officially licensed scarf is available through the Purple Leash Project’s online store.
According to Purina, 100% of every scarf purchase is donated to RedRover, supporting the effort to help survivors and their pets remain together.
Fans interested in supporting the initiative can visit:
Purple Leash Project Scarf Store
Additional information about the initiative is available at:
Bringing Pets Into the Soccer Experience
Beyond raising awareness for domestic violence survivors, Purina used the event to highlight the relationship between sports fans and their pets.
At Audi Field, the company introduced the Purina Club, a temporary pet-friendly seating area where fans could attend the match with their dogs.
The initiative reflects Purina’s growing involvement in soccer, including collaborations with U.S. Soccer and pet-centered activities associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While these efforts celebrate the companionship pets bring to everyday life, the Purple Leash Project addresses a more serious reality: For some individuals, the ability to remain with their animals can influence whether they can safely leave an abusive situation.
Why the Human-Animal Bond Matters
Anyone who has experienced the companionship of a dog, cat, or another beloved pet understands how deeply animals can become part of a family.
Pets offer familiarity, routine, comfort, and emotional connection. During times of uncertainty, those relationships can become especially meaningful.
For survivors of domestic violence, maintaining that bond can provide an important source of reassurance while rebuilding their lives.
The Purple Leash Project recognizes that protecting survivors and protecting their animals are often interconnected needs.
“At Purina, we believe survivor safety shouldn’t require sacrifice,” said Nina Leigh Krueger, CEO of Purina, in the company’s announcement.
That philosophy is at the heart of the initiative’s mission to expand access to safe, pet-friendly shelter accommodations.
How You Can Help
Supporting survivors and their pets doesn’t necessarily require a major financial commitment.
Individuals can learn more about the Purple Leash Project, support participating organizations, share information about pet-friendly domestic violence shelters, or contribute to nonprofit programs that help families and animals in crisis.
Organizations such as RedRover also provide resources designed to strengthen the human-animal bond and assist animals during emergencies.
Learn more at RedRover.org.
For anyone currently experiencing domestic violence in the United States, confidential assistance is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or TheHotline.org. If immediate danger exists, call 911.
A Safer Future for Survivors and Their Pets
The partnership between Purina, Mariska Hargitay, RedRover, and U.S. Soccer demonstrates how public awareness campaigns can help bring attention to problems that often remain unseen.
For survivors of domestic violence, the path to safety should not mean having to abandon a loyal companion.
And for the pets who depend on their families, remaining together can mean everything.
By helping shelters accommodate animals, the Purple Leash Project is working toward a future where survivors and their pets can escape dangerous situations, find stability, and begin healing together.
More Lifestyle & Pet Stories From STM Daily News
At STM Daily News, we believe stories about pets are also stories about people, families, communities, and the powerful connections that make life meaningful.
Explore more stories about animal welfare, pet care, family life, and community initiatives in our Lifestyle section at STM Daily News.
Stay informed. Stay connected. Discover stories that matter.
Sources and Additional Resources
- Purina — Purple Leash Project
- RedRover — Animal Welfare and Crisis Support
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
- U.S. Soccer
Source: Nestlé Purina PetCare press release, October 11, 2026. Statistics and grant figures attributed to Purina.
5 Ways to Make a Difference in Your Community
(Feature Impact) Communities are strengthened every day by local organizations working to address challenges close to home, whether that’s helping families access food, supporting students, expanding opportunity or providing essential resources to those who need them most. Often operating with limited resources, these organizations are finding practical solutions that make a meaningful difference in neighborhoods and communities across the country.
Many of these efforts happen quietly, powered by people who volunteer their time, share their expertise, donate resources or simply help spread awareness of causes they care about.
For individuals looking to make a difference where they live, community involvement doesn’t have to start with a large commitment. Consider these five options to get involved.
Give Your Time
Giving your time is one of the most direct ways to support organizations serving your community. Whether it’s packing meals, mentoring young people or participating in neighborhood cleanups, volunteering allows people to contribute directly while gaining a deeper understanding of local needs.
Share Your Skills
Nonprofits often need specialized skills in addition to hands-on volunteer support. Communications support, technology expertise, event planning, photography, financial guidance and other professional skills can help organizations expand their reach and strengthen their operations. Contributing the skills you’ve developed can often be just as valuable as donating time or resources.
Tap Into Your Workplace
Many employers offer opportunities to support causes that matter to their employees, such as volunteer programs, community grants or other charitable opportunities.
In communities across the country, local nonprofits can receive support through programs like the PepsiCo Foundation’s Community Impact Awards, where employees can nominate nonprofit organizations in their local communities for grant funding. Since 2022, the program has invested more than $3.7 million into organizations working on issues ranging from food access to education and community development.
“Across North America, there are organizations showing up every day for their communities, often without recognition and with limited resources,” said Monica Bauer, SVP of social impact, PepsiCo and president of the PepsiCo Foundation. “The Community Impact Awards help shine a light on organizations that are creating opportunities, solving local challenges and making a real difference in people’s lives. What makes this program special is that the recognition comes from PepsiCo associates who know these organizations firsthand and have seen their impact up close.”
This year, 100 organizations across the U.S. and Canada received $500,000 total in grants and teamed up with their respective nominating employees for volunteer activities supporting their missions, giving employees another opportunity to engage directly.
Give What You Can
Financial contributions are a valuable way to give back, but they aren’t the only option. Many organizations need non-monetary donations such as school supplies, canned goods, clothing, toys and technology. Before collecting items, check with organizations to learn what is most needed and how contributions can make the greatest impact.
Use Your Voice
One person can make a difference. When that person gets a friend or family member involved, more people can discover and support organizations doing important work. Sharing a nonprofit’s mission on social media, inviting others to volunteer or connecting people with causes you care about can help organizations reach new supporters and expand their impact.
Making a difference doesn’t require doing everything at once. Whether you contribute your time, skills, resources or advocacy, small actions can help make a big impact over time.
Across the U.S., nonprofit organizations are helping improve lives, create opportunities and respond to community needs every day. Their work is a reminder that meaningful change often starts locally with people willing to get involved.
Learn more about how individuals and organizations can help address some of the most pressing needs in their communities by visiting PepsiCo.com/about/social-impact.
SOURCE:
PepsiCo
