In a future shaped by AI, heightened security, and constant transformation, it has become crucial to ensure that no segment of our global population is left behind. At Cisco, we are committed to this cause by leveraging our technology, talent, and networks to bridge the digital divide. Everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive in an increasingly connected world. Four years ago, we formalized this commitment through our Social Justice Beliefs and Our Commitment to Action, which outlines our strategy to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented communities globally. 

As part of this commitment, we pledged to support the Black community and strengthen Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Recognizing the vital role HBCUs play as pillars of educational excellence and cultural heritage, we demonstrated our dedication in 2020 with a $150 million donation over five years to enhance STEM education and technology modernization. 

Our approach goes beyond financial contributions. We aim to co-innovate with HBCUs to effect meaningful and lasting change in four key areas:

• Supporting STEM students
• Building technological expertise
• Ensuring success before and after graduation
• Enhancing information sharing and engagement

For three years, we have worked together with HBCUs and a network of partner organizations to foster innovation, inclusion, and leadership among Black students in the AI era. Our collaborative efforts have resulted in:

• $66 million in services and software donations
• 46 National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) assessments and 30 technology installations at HBCUs
• Preservation of $1.5 billion in Title IV funding through essential NIST compliance services and software
• Launching the Cisco Cyber Academy at Denmark Technical College, a two-year HBCU in rural South Carolina. 

As our partnerships with HBCUs and our ecosystem of partners continue to evolve, so does our impact. We anticipate sharing more significant achievements in our fourth year. 

Our work with HBCUs highlights the benefits of approaching challenges from an ecosystem perspective. The interconnected nature of our world means that social injustice affects everyone and that we all have a role in fostering a more equitable and inclusive future. Bringing together Cisco Partners has been essential in providing HBCUs with necessary support, including IT infrastructure assessments, recommendations for upgrades, and donations of services and equipment to ensure access to the latest cybersecurity technology. 

An inspiring example of this collaboration is Denmark Technical College. Dr. Willie L. Todd Jr., President and CEO of Denmark Tech, underscores the positive changes resulting from our partnership and the broader ecosystem's support, illustrating how these efforts are creating a brighter future in a region with historically limited opportunities. 

In collaboration with Procellis, a member of the African American Cisco Partner Community (AACPC), Cisco provided equipment and services to enhance Denmark Tech’s IT infrastructure, ensuring compliance with NIST cybersecurity standards. Additionally, Cisco facilitated a partnership between Denmark Tech and Fusion Cyber, a company specializing in online cybersecurity training for colleges and universities. 

This program offers a comprehensive career-focused curriculum, including certification, mentorship, and job coaching, designed to prepare students for cybersecurity careers. Dr. Todd recognized the program’s potential to transform his students' futures and the broader community. Launched in 2021, it aims to upskill students for cybersecurity roles, fostering opportunities for generational wealth. To date, the program has graduated 59 students, including veterans, women, and other underserved groups, with plans for expansion underway. Graduates can remain in their communities, positively impacting the local economy and instilling renewed hope and optimism in the region. 

As AI, globalization, and digitalization create a more interconnected world, the need for robust cybersecurity is more critical than ever. The World Economic Forum estimates a demand for 3 to 4 million cybersecurity professionals to support the global economy, highlighting a significant shortage that jeopardizes digital security. Denmark Technical College, now the 27th HBCU to offer Cisco’s Networking Academy curriculum, provides programs in networking, cybersecurity, Python, and data science. These programs are designed to equip students with job-ready skills, enabling both faculty and staff to benefit from and contribute to the AI-driven economy. 

Our commitment is to maximize social impact through training individuals, connecting schools, supporting colleges, and empowering communities. This effort aligns with Cisco’s Purpose to foster an inclusive future for all, recognizing inclusivity as a fundamental human right rather than just a societal ideal. 

“We’ve taken what many might say was a floundering institution, and we’ve turned it into a success story the likes of which this area has never seen,” said Dr. Willie L. Todd Jr., Denmark Technical College President and CEO.