Evonik Contributes $1,500 To Encourage Mobile Science Education

Evonik Degussa Corporation today donated $1,500 to further the education of one of Theodore High School’s top science scholars and to enhance science education at Hollingers Island Elementary School.

The donations were in honor of the dedication of Evonik’s new 60,000 metric ton sodium methylate facility that produces a ready-to-use catalyst – essential in the manufacture of biodiesel produced from natural oils such as rapeseed or soybean oil.

“Evonik Degussa Corporation strongly believes that the education of today’s young people – particularly in the area of science and technology – is extremely important,” said Thomas Bates, president of Evonik Degussa Corporation and Mobile site manager. “We wanted to commemorate the dedication of our new sodium methylate plant not by giving out T-shirts or baseball caps, but by donating $1,500 to further science education in Mobile.”

During ceremonies today at the Evonik Degussa site in Theodore, Bates presented a $750 check to Tory Rogers, a senior and one of the top students at Theodore High School. “Tory will be studying physics in September at the University of South Alabama,” said Bates. “We need more young people like Tory. Without scientists and researchers to create new products and improve mature ones, we probably wouldn’t be talking about sustainable energy today.”

Evonik Degussa is a well-known supporter of Theodore High School,” said Principal Ronald Rowell. “We deeply appreciate Evonik’s generosity,” continued Rowell. “The company is an outstanding member of the community and we appreciate Evonik’s continuing support of students like Tory.

Bates also presented a $750 donation to Hollinger Island Elementary School Principal Shirley Thompson. Like Theodore High School, Hollingers Island Elementary is one of Evonik Degussa’s partners in education. The funds will be used to further science education.

“We thank Evonik Degussa wholeheartedly for its extremely generous contribution,” said Ms. Thompson. “Evonik’s donation is an investment in the young people of our community who are hope for the future. We welcome involvement of companies in the community such as Evonik Degussa and we applaud them for their commitment to education.”

Evonik is proud to support some of the best student minds in the community, said Stefan Welbers, Evonik Vice President and General Manager, North America, Electrolysis Products. “We know that these motivated, extremely talented young people will achieve their goals of higher education and we want to help them, in our own little way, fulfill their dreams,” he said. We expect to see great things from Tory and the youngsters at Hollinger Island Elementary School.”