Sponsored by Ergon since 2022, the Summer Bridge Program at Mississippi State University’s Bagley College of Engineering has evolved into an even more transformative initiative for underrepresented groups of incoming engineering students than it already has been for over 30 years. Initiated as part of a service project under the leadership of Bonnie Chapman, VP – Product Stewardship, Ergon has renewed our commitment to sponsor the program with a substantial pledge of $900,000 over the next three years. This funding supports various initiatives, including interactive workshops, travel to tour Ergon facilities statewide, student housing and the introduction of a full math credit to the curriculum.

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Transformative Experiences and Growth
The program, which aims to accommodate 35 - 50 participants annually, has made a lasting impact on its participants. Morgan Lounds, an incoming freshman from Oklahoma, shared how the program helped her forge new friendships and build confidence. “The program allowed me to improve my academic preparation and personal development,” Morgan said, emphasizing the program’s role in her growth.

Jordan Gillespie, a senior who participated in the program in 2022, described his experience as “very positive.” He appreciated the chance to connect with “like-minded individuals” and gain practical engineering experience. When asked what he’d say to future Summer Bridge participants, Jordan highlighted the importance of time management and perseverance he learned during his time in the program, stating, “Persevere today for a better tomorrow,” is a mantra he continues to apply in his academic journey.

Anahya Lewis, who recently completed the 2024 program and will be a freshman this fall also praised the program for easing her transition into college life. She appreciated the structure of the program, which included workshops, projects and networking opportunities. “The friendships and support system built during the program were invaluable,” she noted.

The positive impact of the Summer Bridge Program is underscored by data derived from the dissertation of Marcus Isaiah Brumfield, Ph.D. Brumfield’s research focused on "The Impact of a Summer Bridge at a Public Land-Grant University in the Southeastern Region on the Retention of First-Time Black Students." The statistics presented are specific to Black students, though similar results are likely for other student groups in the program. Notably, Brumfield’s research shows black students who participated in the Summer Bridge Program at the Bagley College of Engineering have demonstrated higher academic success compared to their peers and have earned engineering degrees at a 1.5 times higher rate than non-participants.

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Program Enhancements and Future Directions
Ergon’s involvement over the past three years has significantly expanded the program. Beyond an increase in the number of participants, the addition of a monthly book club under the guidance of Jamian Rush, Ergon’s Sustainability Specialist within the Product Stewardship Department, has been a standout feature. “It’s not just a summer program where we only engage in the summer; it’s something where we constantly have contact with the students from their first fall semester all the way through to graduation,” Rush explained. The book club, featuring books like Who Moved My Cheese?, aims to foster both personal and professional growth while maintaining the community students build with their fellow participants during their Summer Bridge Program.

Rush emphasized the program's broader focus, stating, “This year, we really tried to focus on putting the students in that engineering state of mind ... but also on general soft skills that the students would need to be successful engineers in any field.” Further success stories from alumni highlight the program’s effectiveness, with many students experiencing academic success and gaining early access to co-ops and internships.

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Looking Ahead
Looking forward, the program plans to increase engagement with more involvement from Ergon employees. “The goal is to make sure they know they have someone they can lean on and depend on ... to develop strong connections before they go into the engineering field,” Rush said, underscoring the commitment of everyone contributing to the program to providing robust support for participants.

The Summer Bridge Program at Mississippi State University has proven to be a vital steppingstone for engineering students. By fostering academic success, personal growth and lasting relationships, the program not only prepares students for the challenges associated with earning an engineering degree, but also ensures they have the support needed to excel beyond their education well into their engineering careers.

Ergon is proud to support these efforts and prepare the next generation of leaders.