Verizon opened Day 3 of E3 with some exciting news about inclusion in gaming. Effective immediately, Verizon has teamed up with Riot Games to launch a scholarship program and training opportunity dedicated to supporting women in gaming. In an official press release, Verizon explained that with “… the need to address diversity as the gaming community grows, the Verizon Game Forward Scholarship aims to increase female representation in gaming and STEM.”

Beginning this fall Verizon will award the scholarship to five female students studying in the tech sciences at each of five Historically Black Colleges. Those schools are Delaware State University, Dillard University, Howard University, Morgan State University and Texas Southern University. Recipients of the scholarships will also be guaranteed internships at major tech companies.

In regard to the new training programs, Verizon announced:

“Taking further action to support female representation in the gaming industry, Verizon expanded its commitment to the Verizon VCT Game Changers initiative, which elevates women and marginalized groups within the esports community…In partnership with Riot Games, a new expansion to the program, launching this fall, will provide training and mentoring to the next generation of female esports casters, providing them with the tools and insight to grow in their careers.”

Tell us what you think! Are you excited by Verizon’s announcements regarding equity and inclusion programs? Share your reactions in the comments below or join the conversation in Boss Rush Discord.

Source: Verizon