Coherent Announces Support of DEI-Related Educational Initiatives Through HBCU/MIS and the Optica Foundation

PITTSBURGH, April 23, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a leader in materials, networking, and lasers, today announced a $500,000 sponsorship of two educational initiatives targeted to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in entrepreneurship, innovation, and advanced technology: the HBCU/MI Entrepreneurship & Innovation initiative by Leadership Needed Foundation and the Optica Foundation Amplify Scholarship for Black scientists.

The HBCU/MI Entrepreneurship and Innovation initiative by Leadership Needed Foundation aims to assist Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority institutions (HBCU/MIs) in developing a comprehensive entrepreneurship curriculum that is particularly relevant in preparing African American and other minority young men and women to develop an entrepreneurial mindset and become leaders and entrepreneurs.

Founded in 1916, Optica is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students, and others interested in the science of light. Optica’s renowned publications, meetings, online resources, and in-person activities fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications, and accelerate scientific, technical, and educational achievement. Additionally, the Optica Foundation focuses on the next generation of innovators and technologists to cultivate a diverse workforce able to address global challenges. Each year, Black undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarships from the Optica Foundation to ease the financial burden of college, and other benefits including a one-year membership to Optica, access to mentors, and an invitation to the 2024 Amplify Optics Immersion Program.

On April 19, 2024, Dr. Vincent D. (Chuck) Mattera, Jr., Coherent’s Chair and CEO, spoke at the 2024 HBCU/MI Entrepreneurship and Innovation event at the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel in Atlanta. Dr. Mattera outlined Coherent’s commitment of funding, equipment, and expertise to the HBCU/MI Entrepreneurship and Innovation initiative and received the 2024 Outstanding Supporter of the HBCU/MI Award on behalf of Coherent.

“Potential is universal; resources are not,” said Dr. Mattera. “The single greatest privilege I have had in my career is helping develop talent. I have taught classes at an HBCU, and that experience reminds me that our greatest human talents are unleashed by giving free rein to imagination. It is our responsibility to help create opportunities for young people in love with discovery and possibility. We will work with HBCU/MIs and the Optica Foundation to expand the reach of the life-changing work they do. This is a major opportunity to strengthen America’s role in laser design, manufacturing, and applications.”