Chevron’s latest gift to Fresno State brings total to nearly $3 million

Generous support from Chevron — a gift of $350,000 — will benefit several Fresno State programs across the university.

With this most recent gift, Chevron has given nearly $3 million to Fresno State programs since 2017. Chevron representatives formalized this year’s gift with a ceremonial check presentation and celebration on campus on Oct. 16.

“We are deeply thankful for the ongoing support from Chevron,” said Dr. Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval, president of Fresno State. “Their intentional support of our programs elevates the impressive potential our students have, and in so doing, they are co-creators of future visionary leaders.”

Chevron’s gifts focus on addressing a shortage of STEM-trained workers in the region and providing enhanced educational opportunities in these areas. It also aligns with Chevron’s commitment to veterans by supporting the Veterans Education Program.

• College of Science and Mathematics’ Mobile Making Program ($100,000) — The Mobile Making program engages Fresno State students in facilitating hands-on STEM projects with youth in Fresno Unified School District’s after-school programs. With the donation from Chevron, the program will expand to include high-tech projects like coding and robotics, enhancing STEM education for more than 1,000 youth and providing valuable teaching experience for Fresno State students.
• Kremen School of Education and Human Development’s Community Career Counseling ($100,000) — The Fresno Family Counseling Center, operated by Fresno State’s marriage, family and child counseling faculty and students, will offer affordable career counseling to 250 to 300 individuals in the Central Valley each year. The program provides six counseling sessions per participant, enhancing career readiness and providing valuable real-world experience for therapist trainees while benefiting the community through improved career outcomes. This gift will launch this program benefiting the community, students, faculty and staff alike.  
• Continuing and Global Education’s Veterans Education Program ($75,000) — The Veterans Education Program at Fresno State helps veterans transitioning from military service to higher education by offering a tailored curriculum and essential resources to address their unique challenges. Established in 2012, the program provides personalized learning experiences at no cost to students, covering tuition and other costs, and prepares veterans for academic and professional success. Chevron will cover the cost of up to 10 student veterans and enable the program to advance the economic and social opportunity for our veteran students.
• Lyles College of Engineering’s Finish Strong Program ($75,000) — The Lyles College Finish Strong Leadership Academy aims to bridge the gap in soft skills training for first-generation and underrepresented minority students in engineering, architecture and construction. The program offers 40 hours of instruction and hands-on activities focused on leadership, communication and industry-specific technical skills to prepare students for success in the competitive workforce. Chevron’s gift will empower 200 to 250 junior and senior engineering students with crucial soft skills essential for success in their field.

“Chevron is proud to support Fresno State’s innovative programs that are shaping the future of our region,” said Chanel Jolly, corporate affairs manager, San Joaquin Valley Business Unit, Chevron. “We strive to empower people to improve their lives, achieve their aspirations, and meet their full potential. Our partnerships and investments in education and economic development help advance progress, strengthen communities, and support programs that position the next generation of problem solvers to tackle the complex challenges of the future. Together with Fresno State, we are committed to fostering a brighter future for the Central Valley.” 

During their day-long visit to the Fresno State campus, Chevron representatives heard presentations about the Mobile Making Program, the Kremen Community Career Counseling, the Continuing and Global Education Veterans Education Program and the Lyles College’s Finish Strong Program.