WS Chronicle

Winston-Salem State University is excited to announce its partnership with Nationwide to provide a $100,000 sponsorship over the next four years for ongoing support of Computer Science and Information Systems & Analytics programming.

In addition to substantial support of WSSU technology majors, this is a mutually beneficial agreement that will provide Nationwide priority access to engagement opportunities with students and faculty, both virtually and in the classroom, to support the company’s talent initiatives. Nationwide will also receive designated branded computer lab space in the Elva J. Jones Computer Science Building.

WSSU’s long-standing relationship with Nationwide began in 2015 with an internship program. Since then, Nationwide has hired 65 interns from WSSU, and of those, 20 have accepted full-time employment with the company.

“Since joining as an intern in 2015, Nationwide has always made me feel valued,” said Jameeka Chambers, a senior technology analyst at Nationwide and WSSU alumna. “They appreciate and acknowledge my opinions and ideas, and most importantly, they care about my personal growth. As an associate, I have been able to further my education and participate in a rotation program to explore different technology paths within the company. I appreciate and value what Nationwide has done for me and look forward to continuing my journey.”

Chambers was also selected for the Nationwide Technology Early Career Rotation Program. This highly sought after and prestigious accomplishment is for high-performing associates early in their careers.

“Nationwide is grateful for the long-term relationship that we have shared with WSSU and we are proud to be able to increase our investment with such a quality institution,” said Nationwide Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer Jim Fowler.

With a highly diversified workforce, Nationwide has garnered a strong reputation for its effectiveness in recruiting interns to train for various careers, including IT, actuary, finance, internal audit, legal, and marketing and sales. 

“We are extremely grateful for Nationwide’s support. The opportunities that will be provided to our students are priceless. We pride ourselves on being able to provide high-value exposure for our students, and this partnership will elevate our students as stand-out candidates for future employers,” said LaMonica Sloan Wilhelmi, executive director of career education and partnerships. “Nationwide has prided itself on being a strategic partner. They wanted to engage differently by actively participating in the student experience. You’ll see them on-campus learning more about what we do and how we do it.”