ExxonMobil Foundation and The Harris Foundation Make National “Dream Tour” Stop in Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE, La.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Former U.S. Astronaut Bernard Harris gave students and teachers in Baton Rouge a first-hand experience with the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics when “The Dream Tour, presented by ExxonMobil” made its eighth stop of 2010 on October 27 speaking to nearly 2,000 East Baton Rouge Parish, West Baton Rouge Parish, Baker Middle School and Crestworth Learning Academy middle school students at Scotlandville Magnet High School.

“ExxonMobil Foundation is proud to partner with Dr. Harris in getting the message out to thousands of young adults about the importance of careers in science, technology, engineering and math”

The tour is designed to encourage today’s middle school students to realize their potential and strive to acquire strong math and science skills. The program included an interactive and inspirational program by Dr. Harris, a demonstration on space and engaging dialogue about achieving goals.

“It is critical that American students are prepared with the problem-solving skills and tools to tackle challenges they may face in the future. Providing them with a strong foundation in math and science education is imperative, and with The Dream Tour, I hope to inspire students to pursue studies and careers in these fields,” Dr. Harris said.

From humble beginnings in Houston, Texas to making history as the first African American to walk in space, Dr. Harris is a living example of achieving high aspirations. His story provides a powerful backdrop to bring his message to students in cities across America. Since 2008, Dr. Harris has encouraged nearly 35,000 middle school students in more than 20 cities nationwide. This year, The Dream Tour will visit Anchorage, Baton Rouge, Billings, Cleveland, Denver, Nashville, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego and San Francisco as Dr. Harris continues to motivate and inspire students to pursue math and science.

“ExxonMobil Foundation is proud to partner with Dr. Harris in getting the message out to thousands of young adults about the importance of careers in science, technology, engineering and math,” said Suzanne McCarron, president, ExxonMobil Foundation. “The Dream Tour inspires students to investigate the unlimited possibilities available to them when they choose math and science as a means to realize their dreams.”

For more information about The Dream Tour or Dr. Harris, please visit www.daring2dream.org.

About ExxonMobil Foundation

ExxonMobil Foundation is the primary philanthropic arm of the Exxon Mobil Corporation in the United States. The Foundation and the Corporation engage in a range of philanthropic activities that advance education, health and science in the communities where ExxonMobil has significant operations. In the United States, ExxonMobil supports initiatives to improve math and science education at the K-12 and higher education levels.

Globally, ExxonMobil provides funding to improve basic education and combat malaria and other infectious diseases in developing countries. In 2009, together with its employees and retirees, Exxon Mobil Corporation, its divisions and affiliates, and ExxonMobil Foundation provided $235 million in contributions worldwide, of which more than $98 million was dedicated to education. Additional information on ExxonMobil’s community partnerships and contributions programs is available at www.exxonmobil.com/community.

About The Harris Foundation

Founded in 1998, The Harris Foundation is a 501 (c) (3), non-profit organization based in Houston, Texas, whose overall mission is to invest in community-based initiatives to support education, health and wealth. The foundation supports programs that empower individuals, in particular minorities and economically and/or socially disadvantaged, to recognize their potential and pursue their dreams. The Education Mission of the Harris Foundation is to enable youth to develop and achieve their full potential through the support of social, recreational, and educational programs. The foundation encourages math and science education, motivates youth to stay in school, fosters youth leadership and citizenship, as well as instills the values of responsibility, fairness and respect.

The Harris Foundation believes that students can be prepared now for the careers of the future through a structured education program and the use of positive role models. More than 10,000 K-12 students participate and benefit from THF programs annually. www.theharrisfoundation.org