The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies (CECS) in partnership with the Niswonger Foundation, Kingsport City Schools, Sullivan County Schools, and Ballad Health has been selected as one of seven recipients of the Future Forward Innovation Grant from the State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE). The grant will be used to launch an AI and data science credential leveraging the high school computer science course requirement as a gateway to advanced studies in emerging technologies like AI, data analytics and computer science. Designed to accelerate access to cutting-edge skills and career opportunities, the pathway will empower high school students in northeast Tennessee to earn industry-relevant credentials that prepare them for emerging roles in healthcare, technology, and other sectors.
“We’re honored to receive the Future Forward Innovation Grant from SCORE in partnership with the Niswonger Foundation, and to be part of a statewide effort to reimagine how students as early as high school connect their education to meaningful, high-impact careers,” said Ozlem Kilic, Vice Provost and Founding Dean of CECS. “This grant allows us to deepen our partnerships and create interdisciplinary, future-focused programs that respond directly to the needs of both students and employers. As fields like AI and data science continue to transform every sector of our economy, we’re committed to ensuring students not only gain access to these opportunities—but are prepared to lead in them.”
“Our team at the Niswonger Foundation is very excited to begin the work of bringing an AI and data science pathway to Northeast Tennessee and beyond,” said Law Loving, Director of Career and Workforce Readiness at Niswonger Foundation. “The partnerships we have with organizations like CECS are what makes this work so impactful for students and communities all across the state. Although AI is a complex, cutting-edge topic, we are confident our team will be able to develop a strong AI and data science career pathway that blends academic and technical skills, provides broad access to meaningful credentials, and ultimately leads to a brighter future for Tennesseans.”
The Future Forward Innovation Grant is part of SCORE’s broader effort to support innovative education-to-career pathways that promote economic mobility and address industry talent gaps across Tennessee. Nearly 100 proposals were submitted, and seven partnerships were awarded. Learn more about additional partnerships here.
Media Contact:
Sarah Wyland
Director of Communications
College of Emerging and Collaborative Studies
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
[email protected]