At ceremonies marking the 50th anniversary of the Geismar Olefins facility, NOVA Chemicals Corporation announced a $50,000 donation to establish an endowed scholarship at River Parishes Community College (RPCC) in Gonzales, Louisiana.

 

The scholarship will support local students pursuing degrees in process technology (PTEC), instrumentation and electrical studies.

 

“NOVA Chemicals is honored to be a part of the Geismar community,” says NOVA Chemicals CEO Todd Karran. “In the U.S. and Canada, we work collaboratively with our communities to lend a hand through active service and investment in select organizations dedicated to making a difference and improving quality of life. RPCC is an integral part of the Ascension and Iberville parish communities, and we’re proud to mark 50 years of the Geismar Olefins facility by partnering with them to develop our local workforce.”

 

NOVA Chemicals acquired its interest in the Geismar Olefins facility in 2017. The facility began operations in 1967 with start-up and first ethylene production in 1968. Today, NOVA Chemicals employs 130 people at the facility in the production of ethylene and co-products. The establishment of an endowed scholarship at RPCC is part of NOVA Chemicals’ commitment to being a socially responsible neighbor and to supporting area science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) education.

 

“The new NOVA Chemicals scholarship for PTEC, instrumentation and electrical studies is an investment in our community’s productivity,” says Dale Doty, RPCC Chancellor. “RPCC’s PTEC program prepares students for the high-skill, high-wage jobs needed in the manufacturing industry. We welcome NOVA Chemicals as our partner in support of area students and the local workforce, and we’re honored by this investment.”