City Of Tuscaloosa Enters Partnership For HBCU CO-Op Program

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The City of Tuscaloosa will soon participate in a co-op program for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as City Hall looks to further promote inclusivity and diversity in the workforce.

The Tuscaloosa City Council voted on Tuesday to participate in the partnership along with the Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs (GOMA). Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox's office said the program will provide hands-on experience, especially for students majoring in STEM fields.

The program will be a competitive one that will see prospective students interview for a spot. The highest-ranking candidates will then be matched with employers.

Tuscaloosa city officials pointed out that Alabama has the largest number of HBCUs in the nation — 14 total — and through its participation in the program, Tuscaloosa hopes to "ensure that diverse and talented individuals are ready to fulfill employer’s needs."

“We are excited to work with the Governor’s office to launch the HBCU Co-Op Program in our city,” Mayor Walt Maddox said. “HBCUs are an integral part of Tuscaloosa’s history and I know this program will have a positive impact on workforce development in our community.”

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