Calen Robinson from Brookhaven recently graduated as a home-schooled student, supplemented by dual enrollment classes at Widener and Delaware County Community College.

His academic achievements – particularly in the realm of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) – earned him a scholarship from the United Negro College Fund.

As one of the 100 top-performing African-American high school seniors, selected from across the nation, Robinson will receive a total award package of up to $25,000 that includes scholarships and a stipend for STEM internships over five years.

The Delco native plans to attend Carnegie Mellon University this fall and study computer engineering. Aspiring to become a chief technology officer, Robinson understands the importance of protecting the integrity of a company’s information technology and data infrastructure.

“Protecting a company’s data and the data entrusted to it by its clients is an important task,” he said. “Without security, there would be no trust in clients, and profits would decrease in any business model.”

“Thanks to the UNCF, with the opportunities afforded through this award, I’ll be able to make my dream a reality. My work will have far-reaching benefits for everyone who uses the network.”

The UNCF has been focused on diversity and inclusion efforts, particularly in the software industry. African-Americans make up less than five percent of the science and engineering workforce, and less than one percent of all tech startups.

Applications opened in November 2015 and closed in February, with more than 2,300 students applying for the coveted awards. The inaugural class of 100 STEM Scholars comprises 50 men and 50 women with an average GPA of 3.83.

With regard to their academic aspirations, 44 percent of the scholars plan to pursue a degree in the sciences; eight percent will pursue technology; 45 percent, engineering; and three percent, mathematics.