Tyson Foods has long believed that strong communities are built by investing in people, especially the next generation of leaders. That’s why we’ve committed $100,000 to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) to help students gain the skills, mentorship and career connections they need to build meaningful careers after graduation. The funding will support UAPB students in developing job skills and finding employment, while also bringing career mentorship and employer connections to high schools across the Arkansas Delta.

Local team members celebrated the commitment—a total of $127,000 across all of Tyson Foods annual giving to UAPB—during the university’s Homecoming on October 17, presenting a ceremonial check at Simmons Bank Field.

Equipping Students for Career Success

Forming a strong foundation for career success starts in the classroom, through access to professional development and workplace skills training. UAPB’s Office of Career Services helps make this possible, serving approximately 500 students each year through career coaching, interview preparation, resume development and job placement support. A portion of Tyson Foods’ contribution will help strengthen and expand these services, giving students additional resources as they prepare for life after graduation.

“Career readiness requires more than earning a degree,” said Shirley Cherry, director of the Office of Career Services, in a press release issued by the university. “Our students need to build professional skills, engage directly with employers and develop the confidence and relationships that turn an education into a career. Tyson Foods’ investment will allow us to reach more of them.”

Connecting Classrooms to Job Opportunities

The remaining funding will support UAPB’s Youth Motivation Task Force (YMTF), a program that has connected students with employers, mentors and community leaders for 55 years.

Through workshops, classroom visits and one-on-one mentoring opportunities, YMTF helps students explore career possibilities and develop valuable professional relationships. The funding will enable the program to reach even more students and expand its impact across high schools in the Arkansas Delta.

By introducing students to career pathways and positive role models early, the program helps young people envision future opportunities and develop the confidence to pursue them.

Creating Opportunity Together

Early career exposure and skills development can change a student’s trajectory. When students develop professional skills, build meaningful relationships with employers and gain the confidence that comes from real-world mentorship, they don’t just find jobs; they build careers. They become the resilient, skilled workforce our communities and industry need. This is what our partnership with UAPB creates: opportunity, readiness and a stronger future for Arkansas.