AUC Data Science Initiative Launches Inaugural Future Innovators Scholarship; Two Spelman Students Named First Recipients

Empowering the Next Generation of Data Scientists Through Opportunity and Access

The Atlanta University Center (AUC) Data Science Initiative has announced the launch of the inaugural Future Innovators in Data Science Scholarship. The two scholarship recipients, Ashley Darling, C’2026, and Alexandra Pate, C’2028, both Spelman students, were chosen through a collaborative selection process led by a committee of NextEra Energy and the AUC Data Science Initiative representatives.

"The AUC Data Science Initiative sincerely appreciates the demonstrated support and generosity of companies like NextEra Energy, which share our desire to build effective career pathways in data science and analytics," said Dr. Alfred R. Watkins, interim senior director of the AUC Data Science Initiative. "The two inaugural NextEra Scholars are to be commended for their achievements and encouraged to excel inside and outside of the classroom."

The scholarship aims to promote academic excellence, innovation, and career readiness in data science among HBCU students. It awards $2,000 per recipient and supports them throughout the academic year.

“With this scholarship and future engagements, we hope to help eliminate barriers for AUC students as they embark upon career pathways in the rapidly expanding data science field. We are extremely proud of the first two recipients and look forward to supporting them and more students as they continue building their educational foundation. Thank you also to NextEra Energy for their enthusiastic sponsorship of this scholarship as they continue to make a broader impact via collaborations with organizations like our AUC DSI,” Dr. C. Emmanuel Little, assistant director of Industry Engagement from the AUC Data Science Initiative (DSI), said.

This scholarship marks a step toward greater equity and access in data science education for AUC students. It’s a significant milestone in a growing partnership with NextEra Energy, Dr. Little added. Applicants were required to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, be a full-time HBCU AUC student enrolled in data science-related majors or minors such as computer science, data analytics, engineering, cybersecurity and information technology.

Darling and Pate’s unique journeys and accomplishments embody the scholarship's purpose and values. Both recipients expressed gratitude for the scholarship and shared how their passions and goals align with advancing their skills and making a difference through data science.

I'm incredibly thankful for this scholarship as I refine my skill sets in data science and analytics. In the next few months, I hope to take on specialized projects to build my skills, and this scholarship will go a long way toward approaching them with confidence,” Pate, a mathematics major from Oakland, said. Her passion for math and history serves as the core of her work.

While Pate focuses on the intersection of data and policy to understand societal impacts, Darling channels her passion into technology and community engagement through hands-on initiatives and leadership roles.

Darling, a Lake Villa, Ill., native, shared her passion and some of the meaningful work she’s involved in. “(I have) a strong passion for data science, software development, and making a meaningful impact in my community,” the computer science major said.

Darling co-founded Black Innovators in Tech, where she helps teach coding and tech skills to young Black students in Atlanta public schools. In the summer of 2025, she interned at Amazon as an analyst and recently studied abroad in Tokyo.

“On campus, I lead a gardening initiative that promotes sustainability and wellness. Through all of my work, I strive to use technology as a tool for equity, education, and empowerment,” Darling said.

Both Pate and Darling exemplify the spirit of the Future Innovators in Data Science Scholarship through their academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to using data science as a tool for positive change. With support from the scholarship, they are well-positioned to continue breaking barriers and inspiring others.