Metallica Scholars, (Courtesy)
GRAND ISLAND — For the fourth consecutive year, Central Community College has received an invitation to take part in the All Within My Hands’ (AWMH) Metallica Scholars Initiative. AWMH is the nonprofit, philanthropic organization created by members and management of Metallica.
Launched in 2019 by AWMH in partnership with the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), the initiative has invested over $10.5 million in the American workforce, reaffirming a commitment to career and technical education at the local level. CCC will continue to receive funding to enhance career and technical education programs.
“When we launched the Metallica Scholars Initiative, it really spoke to me. A collective goal of breaking the stigma of trade skills,” said James “Papa Het” Hetfield, Metallica lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist. “Trade skills are vital to society, and what’s even more important is to support the many folks who are trying to create a career by learning and using these skills. I am so proud – we all are – to see how this program is changing lives by providing much-needed resources to empower students, and it’s great that we’re able to make our biggest grant yet to support these students and the future workforce.”
CCC is one of 42 returning Metallica Initiative institutions, which have been joined by 18 newly selected schools. The initiative now has a presence in all 50 United States and the territory of Guam. For a list of all 60 college currently supported by AWMH, visit allwithinmyhands.org/metallica-scholars.
“Central Community College is honored to be the only Nebraska college with a Metallica Scholars program, now supporting students enrolled in criminal justice at our program locations in Columbus, Grand Island, Hastings and Kearney as well as online throughout our area and state,” said CCC President Dr. Matt Gotschall. “We look forward to continuing to learn from and support this national scholar’s network.”
By the end of year six, AWMH estimates that the initiative will have helped more than 8,000 students with a wide range of backgrounds and ages to gain skills to assist in finding meaningful jobs and careers.
“Metallica, through their foundation, is changing how people view and engage with the trades in this country, and it is working,” stated Peter Delgrosso, executive director of All Within My Hands. “I am so proud and honored to be able to announce entrance into all 50 states as this is a significant milestone for not only our foundation but the incredible community we have helped foster and connect.”
“I am happy to congratulate the newest Metallica Scholarship Initiative colleges. The sustained investment in workforce education by the All Within My Hands Foundation has benefitted thousands of community college students,” said Walter G. Bumphus, president and CEO of AACC. “This work helps to advance skills education and the nation’s workforce pipeline. We are honored to continue this partnership to provide critical resources that eliminate barriers for students to participate in skills education programs that lead to family-sustaining wage careers.”
