LiTHIUMLEARNS today announced a $25,000 donation from Chevron. LiTHIUMLEARNS, an initiative of Southern Arkansas University, is dedicated to building a skilled talent pipeline for the region’s emerging critical minerals industry. This contribution will directly support its STEM education and workforce development programs, including the Mobile STEM Lab set to begin visiting K-12 school districts across South Arkansas this year.
“STEM education opens doors to new possibilities and fuels the curiosity and skills needed to solve global energy challenges,” said Lynn Rouse, Chevron Manager of Technology Strategy. “By supporting LiTHIUMLEARNS, we are helping prepare the next generation of innovators to lead the domestic lithium sector and support U.S. energy security.”
The gift follows Chevron’s 2025 acquisition of approximately 135,000 acres in the lithium-rich Smackover Formation across Northeast Texas and Southwest Arkansas. Lithium development aligns with Chevron’s core capabilities and expertise in exploration, drilling, technological innovation, and value chain integration. The company is evaluating the potential to develop a domestic commercial-scale lithium business using advanced technologies such as Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE).
“We are incredibly grateful for Chevron’s partnership. Immediately following its Smackover acquisition, LiTHIUMLEARNS connected with Chevron. The company’s leadership is engaging with many of our partner institutions by providing valuable input regarding education programs and workforce development,” said Sheryl Edwards, associate vice president for strategic initiatives at SAU and director of LiTHIUMLEARNS. “Industry support is essential for our success. Our goal is to prepare students to work for Chevron and other companies involved in building the Arkansas lithium industry.”
About LiTHIUMLEARNS:
LiTHIUMLEARNS is an SAU-led initiative funded by the State of Arkansas’ HIRED Grant program. In collaboration with industry leaders and educational partners, the program provides workforce training and STEM curriculum focused on critical mineral development in the Smackover Formation.
About SAU:
SAU, located in Magnolia, Arkansas, provides students with a complete college experience in a caring environment of service, innovation, and community. With more than 100 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies, SAU initiates new degree programs to fit the needs of career and professional trends of today. As part of this commitment, SAU proudly offers the Next Step Guarantee program, ensuring that students receive the necessary resources, career guidance, and support to transition successfully from college to their chosen careers or graduate studies. To learn more about SAU, visit www.saumag.edu.
