State Farm gives $1.5 million to help Mississippi kids (10/2007)

State Farm Vice President-Public Affairs Mike Fernandez announced on Oct. 25 a $1.5 million donation to Mississippi's Public Education Forum that will fund a statewide awareness campaign to "put the drop" on Mississippi dropout rates.

Nearly one-third of Mississippi high school students drop out each year. The campaign will raise awareness of this national problem and drive necessary change to improve graduation rates in Mississippi. A Company focused on both education excellence and helping Gulf Coast communities recover, State Farm is proud to support this collaborative effort between Mississippi educators, community leaders and business as part of its national efforts to improve educational outcomes.

"Our hope is to not only produce more graduates, but have them better prepared to meet 21st century challenges," said Mike. "For Mississippi, it can mean an even stronger workforce and a more vibrant economy for years to come."

For more information, please read the October 25, news release and the Associated Press coverage of the announcement.