Hampton, Va - The Hampton University School of Business today announced that it has been awarded $1 million by Prudential Financial, Inc. to enhance its technology and communications facilities.

Dr. Ruby Beale, chair of the Department of Business Administration; Mark Grier, vice chairman of Prudential Financial, Inc.; Cheryl Reese, vice president of diversity at Prudential and Dr. Sid H. Credle, dean of the HU School of Business.

The Leadership Application Program will host Mark Grier, Vice Chairman of Prudential, on September 28. Grier will discuss challenges and perspectives on the financial industry. During his visit, Grier will formally present a $1 million check to the school.

“We are grateful to Prudential for this leading gift, which will allow us to offer a new dimension of learning to our students,” stated Dr. Sid Howard Credle, dean of the HU School of Business. “Prudential has been a consistent, generous supporter of our business program, and their partnership has resulted in greater opportunities for both our students and alumni.”

In 2009, Prudential made a donation to establish a computer center in the HU School of Business and in 2010; another donation was made towards an electronic classroom and videoconference center. Prudential also serves as a platinum sponsor of the School of Business’ Annual Fundraising Gala.

Prudential has hosted an annual business case study competition for the past five years, giving HU business students an educational opportunity to understand and resolve issues that relate to Prudential’s businesses, products and clients. Over the past five years, Prudential has awarded paid internships to more than 20 HU students, with eight students receiving full-time positions.

“We are committed to helping to develop and engage high potential students as part of our corporate citizenship and our company’s overall emphasis on talent," said Cheryl Reese, a vice president of diversity at Prudential.

“We are pleased with our relationship with the Hampton University’s School of Business and with the direct impact that our contributions have had on the students’ learning experience.”

The HU School of Business offers undergraduate degrees in accounting, investment banking, finance, economics, entrepreneurship studies, management, marketing and business administration. In 2000, the school established a successful five-year M.B.A. program. In 2009, the school became one of three Historically Black Colleges and Universities to offer a Ph.D. in business administration.