The Walt Disney Company announced Sunday a partnership with Howard University to further the opportunities for black storytellers, according to news outlets.
The partnership consists of a five-year program providing stipends for an array of student projects, including storytelling across animation, digital design, gaming, journalism, live-action, performing arts, product design, visual design, virtual reality, and more, according to a story by the Hollywood Reporter.
Announcing Disney’s Essence Festival of Culture, the company also announced a new creative, collaborative space at the university providing access to speakers, mentors, and internships to students, according to the report.
Disney’s announcement has been part of its effort in school and STEM-related programs to increase storytelling career access for underrepresented talent.
The Sunday announcement comes off the heels of Disney’s Friday statement revealing a reimagined Splash Mountain ride titled Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opening in 2024 at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom and Disneyland.
Read more at the Hollywood Reporter.