Cummins, Inc.

Baker Tilly

Eastman

Improving Vehicle Efficiency Thanks to Axle Gearing

Baker Tilly Awards $50,000 in Grants to Ten Organizations

Eastman and Doloop Partner To Unveil 100% rPET Beverage Bottle at Drinktec 2025 in Munich

<img alt="Principal McLaughlin and Plant Manager Seth Bailey in group photo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0f6b668d-1dc2-4285-bc8b-7bfd35f70316" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ChemFEST_Chemours_091725_1.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="667" loading="lazy" />Students at <a href="https://mwms.ccs.k12.nc.us/" target="_blank">Mac Williams Middle School</a> now have a new way to learn beyond the four walls of the classroom. In early September, the school community joined with <a href="https://www.chemours.com/en/about-chemours/global-reach/fayetteville-works?utm_medium=3bl_q3-25&amp;utm_source=owned_3bl&amp;utm_content=article" target="_blank">Chemours Fayetteville Works</a> to cut the ribbon on a new outdoor classroom designed to spark curiosity and expand hands-on STEM learning opportunities.

The open-air space features seating and work areas that will serve more than 1,000 students each year with interactive lessons in agriculture, life sciences and other STEM subjects. The project is part of a growing partnership between the school and Chemours through its <a href="https://www.chemours.com/en/chemistry-in-action/community-impact/chemfest?utm_medium=3bl_q3-25&amp;utm_source=owned_3bl&amp;utm_content=article" target="_blank">ChemFEST</a> (Chemours Future of Engineering, Science, Trades and Technology) program.
<img alt="Students, teachers, and Chemours employees enjoy ribbon cutting festivities" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0959644f-4cd7-4813-a048-3cc8b7b38a71" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ChemFEST_Chemours_091725_2.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="667" loading="lazy" />“This outdoor classroom is more than just a space—it’s a symbol of our commitment to giving every student access to creative, hands-on learning experiences,” said Seth Bailey, Chemours Fayetteville Plant Manager. “I’ve seen firsthand how partnerships can spark curiosity and inspire young people to consider STEM pathways for their future. The future of chemistry—and innovation—is right here in Fayetteville, and we’re happy to support that. We are proud to partner with Mac Williams Middle School to help build the next generation of innovators.”
<img alt="Student uses hands-on STEM activity" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a98f94c3-c9f4-4894-be6b-3505d8147a0f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ChemFEST_Chemours_091725_3.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="667" loading="lazy" />Principal Anita McLaughlin praised the investment and impact on her students. “We are so grateful to Chemours for investing in our students and school community,” McLaughlin said. “This outdoor classroom will open new doors for hands-on learning and spark a lifelong love of science in our students.”
<img alt="Rocket launcher, part of Chemours gift" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b2c35ce-40b1-4904-916a-f8f1c3df216a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ChemFEST_Chemours_091725_4.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="800" loading="lazy" />The project builds on Chemours’ multi-year collaboration with Mac Williams Middle School, which has already expanded STEM-based lab modules to every grade level and connected students with Chemours employees who volunteer their time. Additionally, this partnership has increased student participation in STEM learning by 10%. The initiative ensures fair access to engaging, real-world science experiences for middle school students in Cumberland County.

Chemours Fayetteville Site and Mac Williams Middle School Celebrate Opening of Outdoor Classroom

<img alt="Three workers in their uniforms holding Mondelēz products" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31e02a0b-a0ff-4fb1-ab62-22a26a74866e" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Workplace-Safety_Mondelez_071125_1.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="962" loading="lazy" />We believe in creating a safe and healthy working environment for all employees, contractors, and visitors across our locations. This commitment is reflected in our rigorous risk assessments, ongoing training programs, and adherence to global safety standards.

HIGHLIGHTS

<ul><li>Approximately 0.24 Total Incident Rate (TIR) (18)</li>
	<li>Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) (36)</li>
</ul>STRATEGIC APPROACH

Our commitment to health and safety is deeply rooted in our organization, with active support from our CEO and senior leadership team. This commitment extends to fostering an inclusive environment where employees, their representatives, and contractors are actively engaged in shaping our safety journey. We believe in meaningful consultation, so their valuable input drives continued improvement and strengthens our shared dedication to a healthy and safe workplace for everyone.

We are committed to addressing issues related to health, safety and the environment. Part of that effort involves engaging and empowering our colleagues to live safely, both inside and outside the workplace.

STRIVING TO ENSURE WORKPLACE SAFETY

Our ambition is to achieve an accident-free workplace. We aim to maintain safe practices, environments, and ways of working for everyone who interacts with Mondelēz International. Our safety guiding principles include creating a safe and healthy work environment for all our employees through a proactive approach that prioritizes exceeding applicable health and safety regulations, investing in our people and facilities, and fostering a strong safety culture.

Our comprehensive Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) policies, standards, and non-negotiable commitment to continued improvement help us to maintain a culture of safety and compliance throughout Mondelēz International. We implement rigorous risk assessments, utilize tools and metrics to track progress, invest in comprehensive training and communication, and conduct regular HSE assessments to evaluate our performance.

WORK, PLAY, LIVE, SAFE PROGRAM

Our "Work, Play, Live, Safe" program promotes a culture of safety for everyone on our sites, encompassing employees, contractors, full-time and part-time staff, and even visitors. We extend this commitment across our locations, including factories, distribution centers, tech centers, and other facilities. By providing guiding principles for everyday actions, we aim to provide safe practices, environments, and ways of working for everyone who interacts with Mondelēz International, including:

<ul><li>Nothing we do is worth getting hurt for.</li>
	<li>All injuries and occupational illnesses can, and must, be prevented.</li>
	<li>We will continually strive for zero incidents.</li>
	<li>Everyone is responsible for safety; leaders are accountable.</li>
	<li>Working safely is a condition of employment.</li>
</ul>BUILDING A CULTURE OF WORKPLACE SAFETY

<ul><li>Our commitment is to create a workplace where safety is paramount, reducing risks across four key areas:
	<ul><li>Occupational Health: Protecting our employees from long- term health issues related to their work environment.</li>
		<li>Personal Safety: Fostering a culture of safety by implementing safe work practices and standards that prioritize the well-being of every individual.</li>
		<li>Process Safety: Enhancing the design, management, and control of potentially hazardous processes within our operations.</li>
		<li>Vehicle Safety: Promoting safe driving practices and improving vehicle-related activities across all functions and operations.</li>
	</ul></li>
</ul>ACTION PLANS AND PROGRESS

WORKPLACE SAFETY PROGRESS

Mondelēz International is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of HSE performance across our global sites. Our commitment is reflected in the following key areas:

OUR INTENT

<ul><li>Compliance: We are committed to meeting or exceeding all applicable HSE regulations.</li>
	<li>Continuous Improvement: We strive to continuously improve our HSE footprint through investments in our people, processes, and facilities.</li>
	<li>Interdependent HSE Culture: We cultivate a culture of safety where everyone takes responsibility for their own well-being and the well-being of others. This culture is essential for achieving an accident and occupation illness-free work environment and for protecting our planet.</li>
</ul>OUR ACHIEVEMENT

Long-Term Impact: In 2024, our continued focus on leadership, capability building, and HSE assessments drove improvements across most safety performance indicators. We achieved a Total Incident Rate (TIR) of approximately 0.24 significantly below the global benchmark of 0.5.(18) Our Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) remained consistently low, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to workplace safety.

Long-Term Impact: Through dedicated efforts in safety culture and Total Safety initiatives, including emergency preparedness procedures, we have seen a reduction in Total Recordable Incidents across operations over the past 10 years.

OUR PRIORITIES FOR 2025

Despite our positive performance, seek continued improvement and are addressing the following areas in 2025:

High Severity Incidents: We are implementing solutions to further improve behaviors, controls, and capabilities across manufacturing and commercial operations to prevent future high severity incidents.

Priority Standards: We are intensifying our focus on closing high- risk gaps, enhancing protection and prevention systems to further strengthen our HSE performance.

M&amp;A Integration: We are investing in resourcing and capabilities to drive integration of Mondelēz International standards and work processes within recently acquired companies.

Commercial Safety: We are revising policies and standards to further enhance safety practices in our warehouses, offices, and vehicle fleet operations.

We remain dedicated to making a positive impact on the world and the communities where we do business, to provide a safe and sustainable future for all.

GOALS AND METRICS

WORKPLACE SAFETY GOAL 
Severity and Total Incident Rate (TIR): Continued focus to reduce Severity 1 safety incidents to zero

<table dir="ltr"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" rowspan="1">2024 PROGRESS</td>
		</tr><tr><td> </td>
			<td>2024</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Total Recordable Incidents (#) (36)</td>
			<td>297</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Lost Time Incidents (LTI) (#) (36)</td>
			<td>217</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Severity 1 Incidents (#) (36)</td>
			<td>9</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Total Incident Rate (TIR) (#) (18)</td>
			<td>0.24</td>
		</tr><tr><td>Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) (#) (36)</td>
			<td>0.86</td>
		</tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.mondelezinternational.com/assets/Snacking-Made-Right/SMR-Report/2024/2024-MDLZ-Snacking-Made-Right-ESG-Report.pdf" target="_blank">View the full 2024 Snacking Made Right Report. </a>

 

(18) 2024 reported information includes data from acquisitions such as Ricolino, Chipita, Clif bar and Give &amp; Go, which differs from previous years. We adjust our goals to better align with reporting requirements and industry best practice, and focus our Health &amp; Safety metrics on Severity (unchanged) and TIR (Total Incident Rate).

(36) 2024 reported information includes data from acquisitions such as Ricolino, Chipita, Clif bar and Give &amp; Go, which differs from previous years. We are transitioning to absolute indicator numbers in our disclosures to provide a clearer and more accurate representation of safety performance. In previous years, data was presented as a percentage increase or decrease.

Mondelēz 2024 Snacking Made Right Report: Health & Safety

<img alt="Amy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae06ff29-5e22-4d8e-8f5d-3f8e159c56dc" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/successful-return-engineering_Cummins_082025.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.cummins.com/news/2025/07/21/amys-successful-return-engineering" target="_blank">Cummins</a>

The Cummins Inc. RePower Program is a paid returnship designed to empower professionals who have been away from the workforce for at least two years. Through this six-month paid assignment, participants gain the opportunity to apply their specialized expertise, interests, life experiences and skills in fields such as IT, engineering and supply chain planning. The program includes training, coaching, development and networking events, with the potential for full-time employment opportunities upon completion. For professionals like Amy, who are reentering the workforce after a career break, such programs can be life-changing.

Amy began her career in product and process development at a flexible packaging company, collaborating closely with customers to create innovative packaging solutions. She also spent time documenting crucial manufacturing processes for transfer to new facilities. After completing a major project in her engineering role, Amy decided to pursue a career outside of engineering. While this shift allowed her to acquire valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and adaptability, she soon realized she missed using data to guide decisions. This realization prompted her to return to engineering, choosing Cummins because of its values, mission, and professional growth opportunities.

Amy discovered the Cummins RePower Program through the Society of Women Engineers’ STEM Reentry initiative. “The application process was straightforward. I submitted my application online and received a response within 24 hours. My interview was scheduled with a panel a few weeks later, and I was offered a position shortly after.”

The returnship program provided Amy with a chance to connect with a community within a large organization like Cummins. Throughout the program, she attended regular check-ins and meetings, gaining valuable insights from those who had completed the program and now worked full-time at Cummins. “My favorite part of the program was the opportunity to meet in small groups and get to know the other returnship participants and our mentors better.”

Through the RePower Program, Amy not only acquired new skills but also made significant connections. She shared her experiences with others returning to STEM, which helped her navigate her reentry into the field. The program’s support system greatly impacted her, allowing her to feel connected and supported every step of the way.

When Amy transitioned from the program to her full-time role, she remained on the same team and continued to handle many of the tasks she had during the program. She was also entrusted with additional responsibilities. The skills she gained during her career break, combined with what she learned through the RePower Program, have contributed to her success in her current position. Amy currently serves as a Certification and Compliance Lead at Cummins, where she plays a key role in assisting New Product Development teams with formal compliance reviews throughout the development process.

The structure and support provided by the returnship program helped Amy navigate the extensive organization that is Cummins. The program guided her on where to find resources, whom to ask for help, and provided a space to share experiences with others. This sense of structure made it easier for her to transition and visualize her future career within Cummins.

Amy highly recommends the Cummins RePower Program to anyone looking to reenter the STEM workforce. “I feel so fortunate that I found the program and that opportunities like this exist for those trying to rejoin STEM fields.” She believes it’s an incredible opportunity to gain the support and connections needed for successful reintegration into the field. Amy is thankful for the program and the doors it has opened for her within Cummins.

Amy’s Successful Return to Engineering

<img alt="A young cancer patient with his companion dog." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="972f8126-b558-4a2c-adcc-63d899bdc855" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/MCC-Graylon_pet%20therapy_Aflac_9.15.25A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="927" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://newsroom.aflac.com/15-new-reasons-to-smile-Aflac-Childhood-Cancer-Foundation-awards-2025-Child-Life-Grants" target="_blank">Originally published on Aflac Newsroom</a>

The Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation (ACCF) has announced recipients of their 2025 Child Life Grant awards benefitting 15 hospital programs that will help bring comfort, support and guidance to pediatric patients, their siblings and families experiencing a cancer or blood disorders diagnosis. Since 2018, 83 grants totaling $152,500 have been awarded by the foundation to Child Life programs across the U.S.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to once again support the vital role child life specialists play in helping young cancer and blood disorders patients and their loved ones navigate their journeys through diagnosis and treatment,” said ACCF president Kerry Hand.

Because insurance does not typically cover Child Life programs, charitable donations are vital for some hospitals to be able to include these therapeutic and educational interventions that help minimize stress, promote coping and help children and families adjust to medical experiences, he added.
<img alt="Young child holding an Aflac Duck and a blanket." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7b789b4-7147-4adf-bf56-03787309b5f3" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Aflac_Blanket_CLS_Aflac_9.15.25B.jpeg" width="640" class="align-center" height="600" loading="lazy" />This year’s grantees are Children’s Health Foundation, Oklahoma City, OK – Nourishing Hope; Children’s National, Washington, DC – Super Sib Day; East Alabama Medical Center, Opelika, AL – Sickle Cell education; Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital, Danville, PA – Head wraps and care packages; James and Connie Maynard Children’s Hospital, Greenville, NC – Canine Crew; Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center, Atlanta, GA – coping support resources; Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital, Tacoma, WA – developmental play items; New York Presbyterian Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY – support group; Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, Miami, FL – Memory Making; Christus Children’s, San Antonio, TX - Puppyatrics ; Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ – sack lunch program; UCSF Benioff Hospital, Oakland, CA – Patient and Sibling Resiliency Initiative; UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, Gainesville, FL – sibling care packages; University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS – proton therapy patient blankets; and Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia, Augusta, GA – pup companion. Stay tuned to <a href="https://newsroom.aflac.com/" target="_blank">newsroom.aflac.com</a> for more stories about the impact of these programs.

You can <a href="https://cfcv.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1049" target="_blank">join the Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation</a> in its mission. One hundred percent of donations to the Aflac Childhood Cancer Campaign directly benefit children with cancer and blood disorders and their families through grants supporting treatment and research at hospitals and organizations across the U.S.

Aflac WWHQ | 1932 Wynnton Road | Columbus, GA 31999

Z2500878  
Exp 9/26

15 New Reasons To Smile: Aflac Childhood Cancer Foundation Awards 2025 Child Life Grants

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6f5409e-a52e-4e48-8fff-c9831004dd5d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/AI-solutions_Cisco_090925_1.png" width="640" height="616" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Cisco’s Chief Sustainability Office hosted an AI + Climate Innovation Lab, bringing together 100+ industry experts, founders, and investors to discuss AI and data needs across nine climate sub sectors during San Francisco Climate Week 2025.</figcaption></figure>Artificial intelligence (AI) holds great promise for climate innovation, but its effectiveness depends on access to diverse, high-quality data — something that can be difficult and costly to obtain in the climate sector. This data challenge further complicates an already complex financial environment for climate tech, which is supported by a blend of public, philanthropic, and private funding.

Specifically, Cisco Foundation’s grants and investments, via the <a href="https://blogs.cisco.com/our-corporate-purpose/reintroducing-the-cisco-foundation-regenerative-future-fund-redefining-impact-in-climate-investing" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Regenerative Future Fund (RFF),</a> support quality, open source, foundational data availability and innovative AI applications for climate through blended finance for the industry. Our latest blended finance engagements —with partners across regenerative agriculture and wildfire resilience — serve as case studies.

Aligning capital and data to value regenerative agriculture practices

U.S. farmers seeking to adopt regenerative agriculture practices face many challenges, such as limited access to capital and inadequate data infrastructure. In fact, the <a href="https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/farm-economy/farm-sector-income-finances/farm-sector-income-forecast" rel="noopener" target="_blank">USDA has reported 21% and 17% declines in farm working capital in 2023 and 2024 respectively</a>. These economic trends can limit farmers’ ability to invest in regenerative transitions, and challenge long-term sustainability and growth.

To address this, we provided investment capital to the <a href="https://fractal.ag/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Fractal Farmer Agriculture Regenerative Management (FARM) Fund</a>, which introduced a pioneering financial model that supports farmers while maintaining their land control. Offering 10-year contracts inclusive of incentives tied to regenerative practice adoption, Fractal provides an alternative to conventional debt or majority equity funding structures.

The success of this model is reflected in Fractal’s work with 14 farms, which the organization says have reported a 6.5% higher crop yield compared to local benchmarks and maintained stronger income rates relative to market averages.

For Jesse Hough, the general manager and financial strategist of Hough Farms in East Central Nebraska, Fractal’s long term minority investment approach has helped him consistently outperform county yields. He can continue making on-farm decisions and, unlike short-term programs, Fractal supports regenerative practices for the full ten years, aligning incentives so both farmer and investor share in the long-term gains.

Fractal uses AI and machine learning to analyze underlying land productivity and create more accurate land valuations for its investments. Its models incorporate climate risk and soil health, a more sophisticated approach than traditional static measures that can under- or overvalue a farm’s long-term potential. For Fractal to continue to implement its work best and support farmers like Jesse, it needs improved data infrastructure to support underwriting and incentive processes for the company.

<blockquote>
“When regenerative practices improve yield resilience, the cash flow impacts ripple from land value to crop insurance. Through Open Ground, we’re partnering with Earth Genome to make the climate and agronomic data behind those benefits open source — ensuring it can drive meaningful impact across the entire sector.” — Dr. Emma Fuller, Co-Founder, Fractal
</blockquote>

To accelerate the development of these vital datasets, the Cisco Foundation also provided an early-stage cash grant to <a href="https://www.earthgenome.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Earth Genome</a>. Their new, open-source Open Ground initiative, developed in collaboration with Fractal, will integrate historical climate data, localized extreme weather models, and advanced crop failure classifications to deliver precise field-level insights. Their open access helps stakeholders like researchers, startups, insurers, lenders, and public good entities unlock the potential for AI applications in agriculture. It also helps them to confidently invest in, integrate and reward regenerative agricultural practices in their operations.

The AI edge in wildfire management: Mapping a resilient future

Another example of our blended finance approach is our support of Vibrant Planet and Vibrant Planet Data Commons to address wildfire and land management.

Cisco Foundation’s investee, <a href="https://www.vibrantplanet.net/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vibrant Planet PBC</a>, operates on the core thesis that “you can’t understand what you can’t see”— a concept increasingly crucial as more extreme weather, outdated fire suppression policies, and fragmented restoration efforts make U.S. forests more susceptible to catastrophic wildfires.

The lack of open-source, high-quality data has hindered restoration, management, and community engagement, and has especially excluded Indigenous stewardship and perspectives.

Addressing these challenges requires advanced technology. Vibrant Planet leverages satellite imagery, remote sensing, AI-powered modeling, and cloud-based data integration to capture a comprehensive, real-time picture of forest health, fire risk, and ecosystem change with unmatched granularity.

While these technologies enable the collection, analysis, and sharing of vast datasets —spanning millions of acres — they provide it at an incredibly localized level. This makes actionable insights and informed recommendations via their wildfire resilience platform available to land managers, scientists, and policymakers.

<a href="https://www.vpdatacommons.org/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Vibrant Planet Data Commons</a>, the nonprofit arm of Vibrant Planet PBC, makes forest science and data meaningful and accessible to drive wildfire and ecosystem resilience. With Cisco Foundation grant support since 2022, they’ve built core infrastructure and released novel open-access data packages — including a wildfire ignition probability model  —alongside story-driven tools for public engagement.

Their work prioritizes Indigenous knowledge sharing, with protocols co-developed alongside Tribal partners. These packages are used by scientists and practitioners across the American West, with a growing focus on tracking how this knowledge informs management and infrastructure decisions.

As Dr. Chelsey Walden-Schreiner, Director of Science Development at Vibrant Planet Data Commons shared, “Together, Vibrant Planet PBC and VPDC form a hybrid engine for change — where science meets scalable systems, and where public good and market-driven innovation reinforce one another. Our success is not parallel, but interdependent — unlocking a model for how mission-aligned for-profits and nonprofits can co-create transformative climate resilience.”

Together, these examples illustrate how blended finance and open data can help inform AI-driven approaches to climate resilience, such as supporting more adaptive agricultural practices and informing forest management strategies.

This blog was written with assistance from Ryan Jones, Cisco Chief Sustainability Office, TekSystems.

View original content <a href="https://blogs.cisco.com/our-corporate-purpose/the-data-catalyst-blended-finance-paving-the-way-for-climate-ai-solutions" target="_blank">here</a>.

Cisco - The Data Catalyst: Blended Finance Paving the Way for Climate AI Solutions

<img alt="Jeremiah Smith, wide receiver for The Ohio State Buckeyes." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="10d0c70d-a7b4-4cc9-b6b7-d56dde64bab9" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Jeremiah_Smith_KeyBank_9.10.25.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />CLEVELAND, September 12, 2025 /CSRwire/ - Today, <a href="https://www.key.com/personal/index.html" target="_blank">KeyBank</a> proudly announced a dynamic new partnership with Jeremiah Smith, wide receiver for <a href="https://ohiostatebuckeyes.com/sports/football" target="_blank">The Ohio State Buckeyes</a> and one of college football’s top athletes. The collaboration marks a strategic move by Key to deepen engagement across communities in its home state of Ohio and connect with younger audiences through shared values of education, empowerment and community impact.

The collaboration will launch a new social-first campaign, “The KeyBank Financial Playbook,” designed to empower individuals with financial knowledge through engaging, football-themed content. The initiative combines Smith’s athletic achievements with KeyBank’s commitment to financial wellness, creating a unique platform to reach younger audiences and sports fans across Ohio and beyond.

Smith, a sophomore at The Ohio State University, has shattered freshman records and is a projected Heisman contender and first-round NFL draft pick. He brings a rapidly growing social media presence and an authentic personal brand.

“Jeremiah Smith is more than a football phenom, he’s a role model for young people, a passionate advocate for education and believes in the power of community and collaboration,” said Patty Jurca, KeyBank Chief Brand Officer. “His commitment to using his platform for good aligns perfectly with KeyBank’s purpose: to help our clients, our colleagues and our communities thrive.”

The partnership also includes exclusive rights to Smith’s name, image and likeness in the banking category, and support of KeyBank’s charitable initiatives.

“Partnering with KeyBank is an opportunity to make a real impact off the field. As a student-athlete, I see firsthand how important financial literacy is for young people and families,” said Smith. “KeyBank has long been a leader in the financial services industry and a pillar in the state of Ohio. Together, we’re working to provide resources and education that strengthen our communities here and beyond.”

“Jeremiah’s influence reaches far beyond the football field,” added Lara DeLeone, KeyBank Central Ohio Market President. “He’s a powerful voice for the next generation, and we’re proud to work with him to unlock new opportunities for our clients and communities.”

ABOUT KEYCORP

In 2025, KeyCorp celebrates its bicentennial, marking 200 years of service to clients and communities from Maine to Alaska. To learn more, visit <a href="https://historyofkeybank.com/" target="_blank">KeyBank Heritage Center</a>. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $185 billion at June 30, 2025. 

Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.key.com/" target="_blank">https://www.key.com/</a>. KeyBank Member FDIC. 

CFMA# 250910-3479278

KeyBank Partners With Ohio State Football Star Jeremiah Smith To Inspire Communities and Launch ‘The KeyBank Financial Playbook’ Campaign

<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9c5bab0-70b2-43df-a8cd-bb32d73da93f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Women-in-STEM_Mary-Ky_091725_1.jpg" width="640" height="2018" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva representing her home country of Brazil as one of 2,000 brilliant students traveling from more than 60 countries to the 2025 International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) competition in Columbus, OH.  (Photo Courtesy: Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva)</figcaption></figure>Originally published on <a href="http://newsroom.marykay.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">newsroom.marykay.com</a>

At <a href="http://www.marykayglobal.com" target="_blank">Mary Kay</a>, empowering young women and sparking a passion for STEM isn’t just a mission – it’s a movement. This spring, we proudly returned for the second year as a Special Awards Organization at the <a href="https://www.societyforscience.org/isef/" target="_blank">Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF)</a>, the world’s largest pre-college STEM competition, held in Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A.

The energy at ISEF was nothing short of electric. Each year, nearly 2,000 brilliant young minds from more than 60 countries come together to showcase projects that could change the world – literally. With more than $9 million in awards, scholarships, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, the fair is a launchpad for the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

This year marked ISEF’s 75th anniversary, and Mary Kay had the honor of awarding ten grants totaling nearly $10,000 to high school students whose projects stood out for their creativity, impact, and potential to make a difference. Their work ranged from developing potential cures for cancers affecting women, to designing sustainable packaging solutions, to protecting our planet’s most precious natural resources.

Recently, we caught up with one of Mary Kay’s scholarship recipients, Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva[1] from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to check in on her work and school. When we saw Carolina again this year, she was presenting her work on Salinomycin as a Molecular Trojan Horse for Targeting Mn-Induced Malignancy in Aggressive Tumors.
<figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="&quot; &quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="11a0000f-8660-47f7-86c4-b4b6af15132b" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Women-in-STEM_Mary-Ky_091725_2.jpeg" width="640" height="1083" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Two-time ISEF and Mary Kay Young Women in STEM Grant recipient, Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva, is conducting lab work to further her innovative cancer research efforts.  (Photo Courtesy: Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva)</figcaption></figure>We are so excited to have this fantastic opportunity to sit down with you and see how life is going! You’re a two-time Mary Kay scholarship winner! Tell us how you’re doing and share with us some aha moments from the past 2 whirlwind years.  

<ul><li>As a girl from São João de Meriti, a city on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it often felt unlikely that I would one day present my research in an international, prestigious competition like ISEF, let alone be recognized twice by Mary Kay! Receiving the Mary Kay Research Grant in 2024, among thousands of extraordinary projects, was much more than financial support: it was confirmation that state-of-the-art research can be developed even in places where resources are limited. This award gave me the confidence and motivation to continue working as soon as I returned from ISEF 2024.</li>
	<li>With the support I received from Mary Kay, together with the DCAT (Drug, Chemical, and Associated Technologies Association) award at ISEF 2024, I decided to invest in improvements for my research. For instance, purchasing a camera was crucial to documenting the tumor cells in each experiment. As a result, I was able to build a stronger, more complete, and reliable dataset, which was essential for being selected to participate in ISEF again in 2025 and once more receive the Mary Kay Research Grant. What makes me even happier is that this equipment has helped (and continues to help) not only me, but all the members of my research group, being especially valuable for obtaining high-quality images of experiments that allow us to publish our work in international scientific journals.</li>
	<li>Additionally, with this year’s grant, I plan to purchase equipment for my lab as a way of giving back to the place that has supported my research the most. Looking ahead, I’m applying to universities in the United States, where I will have more opportunities to explore research throughout my undergraduate studies. Both Mary Kay awards are helping me get closer to this dream by providing the resources to help develop my research, and the belief that I can become a researcher who gives back to my community and, hopefully, contribute to making cancer treatment more effective and less aggressive for patients in the future.</li>
</ul><figure role="group" class="align-center"><img alt="Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva working in a lab" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f21d0f2b-ddae-4d8e-bb21-ad2bf27e8871" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Women-in-STEM_Mary-Ky_091725_3.jpeg" width="640" height="1333" loading="lazy" /><figcaption>Grant funds aided the purchase of additional lab equipment to obtain high-quality images, resulting in published work in international scientific journals.  (Photo Courtesy: Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva)</figcaption></figure>We, at Mary Kay, are honored to know such a talented, kind, and goal-oriented young woman. We wish Carolina continued success in all her future endeavors.

Supporting these students isn’t just about celebrating their current achievements, it’s about fueling their journey forward. By championing young innovators, Mary Kay is investing in a future where science and creativity intersect to solve our world’s biggest challenges. 

Because when young people dream in STEM, they don’t just imagine a better future – they build it.

Did You Know: 

<ul><li>Mary Kay Inc. is empowering the next generation of women in STEM by awarding 40 grants totaling $195,000 to support young women around the world in pursuing their dreams in STEM-related fields.</li>
</ul>****

About Mary Kay

One of the original glass ceiling breakers, Mary Kay Ash founded her dream beauty brand in Texas in 1963 with one goal: to enrich women’s lives. Learn more at <a href="https://marykayglobal.com/" target="_blank">marykayglobal.com</a>. Find us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/marykayglobal" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/marykayglobal/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/marykayglobal/mycompany/" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, or follow us on <a href="https://twitter.com/MaryKayGlobal" target="_blank">X</a>.

# # #

[1] Carolina de Araujo Pereira da Silva is a two-time Mary Kay Young Women in STEM grant recipient for her outstanding contributions to the cancer research field. Her 2024 prize money was utilized toward furthering her presented project - Rock the Metals! Investigating Manganese as a Trigger of Malignancy and Metal Transporters as Targets in Cancer Treatment which elevated her 2025 award-winning submission.

At Mary Kay, empowering young women and sparking a passion for STEM isn’t just a mission – it’s a movement. This spring, we proudly returned for the second year as a Special Awards Organization at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 

Two-Time Mary Kay Young Women in STEM Grant Recipient Shares Impact of Award on International Competition Stage and Career Path

<img alt="Stewardship Week 2025 logo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="935686ba-1bb1-48dd-87a8-2718e8700914" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Impact-Grant_Baker-Tilly_091825.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="640" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.bakertilly.com/page/baker-tilly-foundation?utm_source=3BL&amp;utm_medium=Media+Insight&amp;utm_campaign=PR-Extra+Impact+Grant" target="_blank">The Baker Tilly Foundation</a> is thrilled to announce this year’s recipients of the Stewardship Week Extra Impact Grant. 

Launched in 2022, the foundation created the grant program to extend the spirit of Stewardship Week — when team members across the firm join together to make a difference in their communities. 

Each of the ten organizations below was nominated by team members who volunteered with them during Stewardship Week. Each organization will receive a $5,000 grant. 

Extra Impact Grant recipients

<ul><li>Frisco Fastpacs – Frisco, Texas
	<ul><li>This organization provides a weekend backpack of food to children who are in need. Feeding over 1,000 children (K-12) each week of the school year, Frisco Fastpacs has made an impact on the lives of children by giving out over 1.5 million meals since their inception in 2013.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>School on Wheels – Tewksbury, Massachusetts
	<ul><li>The mission of School on Wheels of Massachusetts is to educate children impacted by homelessness by providing academic support, individualized school supplies, and one-on-one mentoring so children can reach their full potential.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>One House at a Time Beds for Kids – Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania
	<ul><li>OHAAT's Beds for Kids program partners with social service agencies across the region who refer families in need. Each child receives a bed, a bag of bedding, several books and a toothbrush.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>Madison Reading Project – Madison, Wisconsin
	<ul><li>Madison Reading Project connects communities with free books and literacy resources that ignite a love for reading and affirm and reflect the diversity of young readers.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>YMCA Urban Advisory – Tampa, Florida
	<ul><li>The YMCA Urban Advisory works together with volunteers to identify critical social needs within the Tampa Bay community and develops programs and initiatives that address those needs.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Milwaukee – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
	<ul><li>This organization provides children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one mentoring relationships that change their lives for the better.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>Milwaukee Diaper Mission – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
	<ul><li>Milwaukee Diaper Mission empowers families in need by providing a reliable source of free diapers and period products.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>Brothers Redevelopment – Denver, Colorado
	<ul><li>Brothers Redevelopment was established in 1971 to provide home repairs for low-income households in South Denver using neighborhood volunteers. It's now grown to become an affordable housing developer and operates many different housing programs and services in communities across the state of Colorado.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>Upshur County Parish House – Buckhannon, West Virginia
	<ul><li>The Upshur Cooperative Parish House serves Upshur County (WV) residents by assisting low-income families in meeting their basic needs and working to increase their quality of life.</li>
	</ul></li>
	<li>Spooner House – Shelton, Connecticut
	<ul><li>Spooner House provides food, shelter and support services to people in need. They are devoted to helping clients establish a self-sufficient living situation.</li>
	</ul></li>
</ul><a href="https://www.bakertilly.com/page/about-us?utm_source=3BL&amp;utm_medium=Media+Insight&amp;utm_campaign=PR-Extra+Impact+Grant" target="_blank">Learn more about Baker Tilly</a>.

The Baker Tilly Foundation is thrilled to announce this year’s recipients of the Stewardship Week Extra Impact Grant. Launched in 2022, the foundation created the grant program to extend the spirit of Stewardship Week

<img alt="Arturo's Action Over Words" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="18963a92-a3bd-4841-a469-b7e486c71203" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/arturos-action-over-words_YUM-BRANDS_090225A.png" width="640" class="align-center" height="777" loading="lazy" /><a href="https://www.tacobell.com/stories/arturos-action-over-words" target="_blank">Taco Bell</a>

2025 Live Más Scholar and Team Member Arturo M., is a first-generation student who had big dreams of working in healthcare, especially after he saw his own family go through language barriers in the hospital setting.

"Growing up in Carbondale, Illinois, I spent a lot of time helping my parents with English, navigating so many different situations as they didn’t know the language. One of the ways I did this was by translating what doctors and nurses said during their appointments. I ended up translating for many others too because I wanted to help those who shared a background with me. This, in combination with summer internships at the clinic, only contributed to my passion for nursing.”

This past year, Arturo applied, and ended up receiving a $10,000 Live Más Scholarship, bringing him one step closer to carrying out his dreams of helping others.

“After joining Taco Bell, the Live Más Scholarship went live and my General Manager (GM) told me to apply. I had never applied for a big scholarship like this before, so I was skeptical at first because I felt discouraged since it was such a big opportunity. I ended up applying anyway! Then, one day, I got a phone call from my GM, asking me to come in after school to do a Team Member core activity. Turns out, it was a surprise party for me with all my friends, family and coworkers announcing that I received the scholarship! It was a once in a lifetime experience.”

So, what does Action Over Words, one of Taco Bell’s core brand principles, mean to Arturo?

“Action Over Words is being an advocate for others who can’t speak for themselves, especially where I come from. I’ve seen the hard times my parents had to face while navigating a country where they didn’t know the primary language. So, to me, it’s doing something that closes that barrier even more.”

Looking to the future, Arturo hopes that he can make a difference in people's lives and the healthcare space by being their voice and giving them proper care. And finally, for those who have similar experiences to him, he encourages them to take that risk and pursue what they believe in, because bravery requires proof.

2025 Live Más Scholar and Team Member Arturo M., is a first-generation student who had big dreams of working in healthcare, especially after he saw his own family go through language barriers in the hospital setting.

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