Google and Clayton State University Team Up to Drive Innovation in STEM Education and Workforce Development
(March 20, 2025) - Clayton State University (CSU) has announced a $250,000 gift from Google to transform the university’s STEM education and workforce readiness programming. This collaboration will drive initiatives that include student scholarships, the establishment of an artificial intelligence (AI) lab, and hands-on industry experiences, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in an era of rapid technological innovation.
“This transformative partnership with Google aligns perfectly with our vision to prepare students for the 21st-century workforce and broadening access to quality education,” said Dr. Lewis, president of Clayton State University.
“Google’s support will fund a variety of programs and projects designed to prepare CSU students for the rapidly evolving industry,” said Dr. Ebrahim Khosravi, dean of the College of Information and Mathematical Sciences.
Key Initiatives
Technology Scholarships
The collaboration will provide $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing technology-related
degrees, helping eliminate financial barriers and increase access to high-demand STEM
disciplines.
Summer STEM Camp for High School Students
A new summer camp will introduce high school students to cutting-edge technologies,
offering mentorship and hands-on learning experiences. The program aims to inspire
the next generation of innovators by cultivating early interest in STEM careers.
Internships and Workforce Training
CSU students will gain access to paid micro-internship opportunities—short, immersive
career learning opportunities designed to provide early-career exposure to the tech
industry.
AI Lab and Certification Programs
The funding will support the creation of a state-of-the-art AI lab at CSU, accessible
to all students for research and skill-building in artificial intelligence. Additionally,
CSU will launch two AI certification programs for current students and for community
members seeking career advancement.
Faculty Development and Curriculum Modernization
Google will fund workshops for CSU faculty led by AI subject matter experts. The curriculum
will be updated to include emerging technologies, ensuring students are workforce-ready
with the latest knowledge in adaptive AI, machine learning, and data science.
Bridging Academia and Industry
"The rapid evolution of technology demands a workforce that is not only skilled but also adaptable and forward-thinking. We are proud to support Clayton State University in developing cutting-edge programs that equip students with the tools and knowledge to succeed in next-generation STEM careers,” said Monique Picou, Google’s Vice President of Cloud Supply Chain & Operations and Atlanta Site Lead. “Together, we're creating a powerful synergy between academia and industry, bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, and fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.”
“By equipping students with in-demand skills and fostering connections between academia and industry, we are building a pipeline of innovation and opportunity that benefits both our students and the broader community,” said President Lewis.
Graduates from these programs will leave CSU ready to meet the needs of an evolving job market, armed with hands-on experience in AI and other emerging technologies.
About Clayton State University
Located in Morrow, Georgia, Clayton State University is a public institution committed to academic excellence, community engagement, and workforce development. With a strong emphasis on STEM education, CSU serves a dynamic student population, preparing graduates to succeed in a global economy.
About Google
Google’s mission is to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful.
For more information, contact Dr. Ebrahim Khosravi at ebrahimkhosravi@clayton.edu or visit www.clayton.edu.