ASU and State Farm Celebrate Five Years of Transforming Futures
Tempe, AZ— Five years ago, Arizona State University (ASU) and State Farm joined forces to create Pathways for the Future (PFF), a groundbreaking workforce development initiative. Launched in March 2020, this strategic partnership was designed to equip high school, community college, and adult students with the critical skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market. Thanks to a $30 million investment from State Farm, PFF has financially supported over 350 learners who wanted to explore and/or complete credentials in fields such as Business, Engineering, Technology, and Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Since its inception, PFF has yielded remarkable success. 68 scholars earned their degrees, and 12 completed certificates that enhanced their career prospects. However, the program’s impact extends beyond financial aid. It offers students tailored career services, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, setting them up for long-term success.
Transforming Lives, One Scholar at a Time
For Hassonil Jones, a chemical engineering student, PFF was a game-changer. In 2022, he was searching for ways to fund his education when he discovered the scholarship. Drawn by its unique blend of financial aid, mentorship, and community involvement, he applied and secured the support he needed to pursue his degree.
For Addison Olson, a PFF Family and Human Development graduate, the program opened doors she never imagined possible. Not only did the scholarship ease her financial burden, but it also helped her become the first in her family to study abroad—an experience she enjoyed in Spain. Additionally, PFF’s career advising services provided crucial guidance during her graduate school application process. Her advisor even connected her with a student in ASU’s Master of Counseling program, who helped her fine-tune her personal statement, increasing her chances of acceptance.
Expanding Horizons Through Community Partnerships
Looking ahead, PFF is deepening its community partnerships to reach even more learners. One of its newest collaborations is with Dress for Success (DFS) Phoenix, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women achieve economic independence. Through EducateHER, DFS’s education initiative, women can earn certificates for high-demand careers. With PFF’s support, they can go even further—earning college credits toward a Bachelor’s degree. EducateHER participants receive guidance on applying for PFF scholarships, ensuring they have access to crucial educational resources.
Additionally, PFF has partnered with Desert Financial Credit Union to provide scholars with financial literacy workshops. These workshops cover essential topics like budgeting, saving, investing, and credit building, empowering students to make informed financial decisions and secure their futures.
A Legacy of Impact and Gratitude
As PFF celebrates its five-year milestone, the heartfelt testimonials from students highlight its profound impact:
“This aid was a big reason I could finally complete my B.A. in anthropology after nine years away from ASU with only nine credits remaining. THANK YOU!”
“I’m very grateful and appreciative of this program and what it enables me to do/become!”
With an unwavering commitment to student success, ASU and State Farm continue to break down barriers, opening doors to education and career advancement. As the partnership grows, Pathways for the Future is not just preparing students for the workforce—it’s shaping a new generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.