Two new funds intended to advance a focus on sustainability and inclusion in supply chain have been announced by J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. and the University of Arkansas. These funds will be used to accelerate current projects and create an endowed scholarship program at the University’s Sam M. Walton College of Business.
“Since launching our collaboration in December, we have identified several opportunities to improve inclusion and sustainability that we are excited to ignite,” said Shelley Simpson, chief commercial officer and executive vice president of people and human resources at J.B. Hunt, one of North America’s largest supply chain solutions providers. “These funds will help jumpstart immediate needs while creating a long-term initiative to ensure that pursuing a career in supply chain is available to everyone.”
The endowed scholarship fund will establish an ongoing scholarship program to encourage students to pursue supply chain careers and contribute to the college’s diverse educational environment. The endowed fund will be based on an initial investment of $1 million. Recipients must be enrolled in Walton College, working towards an undergraduate degree in supply chain, and demonstrate their potential to advance inclusivity. Each application will be considered on an individual basis, and recipients will be determined by the department head of the Walton College Department of Supply Chain Management.
“Through our multiple collaborations, J.B. Hunt is helping us redefine aspects of the supply chain and shape the industry’s future leaders,” said Matt Waller, Dean of the Sam M. Walton College of Business. “Together, we’ve addressed topics such as thought leadership, executive education, innovation, undergraduate studies, and now inclusion and sustainability, all in a quest to create a fantastic future where supply chains are efficient and effective.”
The other fund, called the J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. Supply Chain Management Department Current Use Accelerator Fund, will help expedite several inclusivity and sustainability initiatives stemming from two other collaborations between the company and college. The $250,000 gift will also help promote the supply chain management department efforts and the new endowed scholarship opportunity.
