.png)
Fairfield, Ala. - Miles College has announced it will become a technology hub for coding and creativity in the Fairfield community, as part of Apple’s Community Education Initiative. The initiative—sponsored by Apple and in partnership with Tennessee State University’s HBCU C2 initiative—is designed to bring coding experiences to historically black colleges and universities and their surrounding areas.
In a statement, Miles College President Bobbie Knight said, “We truly appreciate Apple’s leadership in recognizing the pivotal role Miles College and HBCU students will play in the future of global technological advancement and innovation, particularly through supporting and fostering this first-of-its-kind coding partnership.”
Apple will support the initiative with equipment and professional development.
Apple’s presence in Alabama is continuing to grow, as Mobile native and Auburn University graduate Tim Cook has been investing in the Birmingham region. Ed Farm, located in downtown Birmingham, works with Birmingham City Schools and teachers to teach coding and computer sciences.
Last week, Miles also secured a $50 million grant from Alabama Power for critical technology needs to help power the college’s growth. The grant will support the Miles College Empowerment Center for Digital Excellence in Careers and Education (M-Power Center). The center will focus on STEM education, capacity building, and training components.
“Our hope is that this funding will draw further recognition to schools like Miles College and deepen partnerships between business and civic leaders and these vital institutions,” said Myla Calhoun, Vice President of Birmingham Division at Alabama Power. “HBCUs are at the forefront of innovation and academic excellence in Alabama, and across the country, and we hope that our company’s investment will only accelerate this important work.”
Miles was founded in 1898 and is the only four-year HBCU institution in the Birmingham area.