State Farm helps support the next generation of Black leaders

Aliyah Johnson is an impressive young college graduate, but she wanted something more than the Psychology Degree from Albany State University. She wanted to be impactful.

Aliyah Johnson earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and seeks to obtain a Master’s in Professional Studies with a focus on Civic Engagement.

As one of 10 recipients of a State Farm^® Communications Scholarship with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) last fall, she was able to be just that.

“The internship program equipped me with the tools to courageously preserve the impact and legacy of Black leaders,” Aliyah said. “As a State Farm communications intern, I have been afforded an opportunity that helped develop and strengthen my ability to become an innovative thinker, listener and implementer within the field of advocacy.”

Aliyah, a Riviera Beach, FL, native, is now working toward her Master’s Degree in Professional Studies. She says the opportunity to work in Congresswoman Lucy McBath’s office on Capitol Hill was life-changing.

“State Farm’s financial support of this program provides the interns housing, a stipend, and Capitol Hill office placements,” Corporate Responsibility Analyst Katherine Coleman said. “The participants are afforded the opportunity to interact with legislators and leaders working in all branches of government.”

Established in 1976 as a nonpartisan, non-profit public policy research and educational institute, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s mission is to assist the leaders of today while helping to prepare the next generation of African American leaders.

State Farm has been supporting the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation since 2002.

“For 21 years, State Farm has not only been a consistent partner to CBCF but also a committed and dedicated friend of the Foundation,” Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Co-Interim President & CEO and Senior Vice President Donna Fisher-Lewis said. “With $9.1 million in lifetime giving, State Farm has made an indelible impact by supporting our signature events, as well as their dedication to cultivating the next generation of young Black leaders through the flagship Communications Internship Program.”

It is through the State Farm Communications Internships that State Farm is creating opportunities for minority students to enhance students’ political education, get exposure to the legislative process, develop leaders, inform policy and educate the public.

 “The symbolization that it is not about having a seat at the table if you aren’t willing to make the path more profitable for someone else is what stood out the most,” Aliyah said. “This foundation has granted mentorship for young advocates to obtain the impossible outside of the realm of what our society sees us as.

“State Farm’s act of urgency, determination and sponsorship has helped eradicate barriers to opportunities to change,” Aliyah said. “Because who we have become is the product of your push for social transformation. You will forever be appreciated!"