Abogados

"Ford is honored to be receiving this award,” said Jim Padilla, President and chief operating officer of Ford Motor Company, “We believe that education is the greatest equalizer. It empowers and opens the door to opportunities. Partners like the Hispanic College Fund help us advance our efforts in this critical arena."

“It is such a pleasure and a great honor for me to present Ford Motor Company with the ‘Corporation of the Year’ award,” said J. Fernando Barrueta, Hispanic College Fund President & CEO. “Not only are they one of the nation’s most successful corporations, but they are also among the country’s strongest advocates for education.”

Each year, HCF honors one corporation for its support. In 2004, Ford partnered with HCF to launch the Ford Mi Fuerza Scholarship Program. Annually this program provides $100,000 in scholarship funds for students pursuing undergraduate degrees in business and engineering.

HCF also recognizes the accomplishments of the Ford Motor Company and its philanthropic arm, the Ford Motor Company Fund, for emphasizing the importance of diversity and leading education initiatives. Ford Motor Company has implemented mentorship programs for minority employees and created the Ford Hispanic Networking Group, connecting Hispanic employees throughout the company. The Ford Partnership for Advance Studies promotes the connection between classroom learning and real world expectations. Eighty high schools across the country have implemented this innovative program.

The Ford Motor Company Fund, made possible by Ford Motor Company profits, supports initiatives and institutions that enhance and improve opportunities for those who live in the communities where Ford Motor Company operates. Ford Motor Company Fund is committed to creating educational opportunities that stimulate creativity and promote cultural diversity. In 2004, Ford Motor Company Fund-supported organizations received nearly $78 million.

The Hispanic College Fund (HCF) is a private non-profit organization dedicated to developing the next generation of Hispanic professionals in America. HCF accomplishes its mission by raising funds from individuals, corporations and other entities to award scholarships to students seeking a higher education in academic disciplines leading to careers in business, science, engineering and technology. HCF has provided over $6 million in scholarships to more than 2,800 Hispanic students since its founding in 1993. For more information visit the HCF website at http://www.hispanicfund.org or call 202-296-5400.