By Kenneth Mullinax/ASU
The Alabama State University office of Career Services has been awarded two grants totaling $115,000 from the American Honda Motor Company (Honda) to support student and campus advancement and CommUniversity.
Dr. Sabrina Crowder Simmons, assistant vice president for Student Affairs & Enrollment Management, Student Development and Engagement, shared that a
$75,000 grant will be used to install an electric vehicle (EV) charging station (Hornet Power Station) to serve students, faculty, staff, and visitors who drive electric vehicles.
Additionally, she announced that the University also received a $40,000 grant from Honda to continue supporting the Driving Force Academy, a program that helps students obtain their driver's licenses while attending ASU. The grant fully covers the cost of training and license fees. The academy’s first cohort is being trained this summer.
"We created the Driving Force Academy in response to a growing need among our student population," Simmons said. "Many of our students come from urban areas where public transportation is the primary mode of travel for their families. We want to ensure that our graduates are fully prepared to thrive, whether they pursue careers in areas with limited transportation infrastructure or need to meet employer requirements such as having a valid driver's license."
IMPORTANT TO ASU
Dr. Simmons believes that both grants represent a meaningful investment by Honda in Alabama State University’s commitment to student success, mobility, and innovation.
"Together, these initiatives address real-world barriers and align with ASU’s mission to prepare Hornets for success beyond graduation,” Simmons said.
ALL ABOUT COMMUNIVERSITY
Simmons added that the partnership with Honda is a direct extension of the University’s CommUniversity initiative that blends education, service, and community impact.
The Honda Driving Force Program addresses a critical need for ASU students, while the Hornet Power Station contributes to the city’s green initiatives.
"Both projects demonstrate ASU’s role as a leader in student development and civic responsibility, strengthening our connection to the broader Montgomery community," stated Simmons. "These initiatives are part of our broader mission to equip ASU students and the community with the tools they need to succeed academically, professionally, and personally."