Georgia Power and Atlanta Hawks Empower HBCU Students with Pathways Program Expansion

Georgia Power and Atlanta Hawks Expand HBCU Pathways Program

For the fourth year running, Georgia Power has announced an exciting expansion of the HBCU Pathways program, which it conducts in collaboration with the Atlanta Hawks. This initiative is designed to empower students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) throughout Georgia by offering them invaluable internship opportunities. The application window for this year's cohort is open until January 16, 2026.

Since the program's inception in 2023, it has positively impacted the lives of 21 students, many of whom have successfully transitioned into full-time roles in various sectors, including sports, entertainment, and corporate environments after completing their internships. Jonathan King, the Director of Workforce Development at Georgia Power, emphasized the company's commitment to community engagement, stating, "Caring for our communities is at the heart of everything we do. Our partnership with the Atlanta Hawks and HBCU institutions allows us to create pathways for students to gain hands-on experience and establish solid career trajectories."

The HBCU Pathways Program spans ten weeks and features paid internships across numerous departments within the Atlanta Hawks organization. Programs available for the 2025 cohort include roles in Brand Communications, Global Partnership - Activations, Retail, Digital Marketing, Global Partnership - Sales, CPS Ticket Sales, Event Operations, and Hawks IQ (Analytics). Each of these positions is designed to equip interns with the practical skills and professional development necessary for success in their careers.

Camye Mackey, the Executive Vice President and Chief People, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer for the Atlanta Hawks, shared her enthusiasm for the program, stating, "The Atlanta Hawks believe in the power of investing in our people. As a proud HBCU graduate, I'm honored to partner with Georgia Power to offer HBCU students real-world experiences that lay a foundation for their future success. Together, we are shaping the next generation of leaders who will empower our communities and industries."

Georgia Power’s dedication to supporting HBCUs is long-standing, with the Georgia Power Foundation contributing over $5.5 million to various initiatives since 1986. This financial support is part of Southern Company's broader effort to invest $50 million in HBCUs across the nation, ensuring that these institutions remain vibrant and accessible.

Individuals interested in applying for the HBCU Pathways program can visit Hawks HBCU Pathways for more details and application guidelines.

In addition to its focus on community support through the HBCU Pathways program, Georgia Power prides itself on being a leader in customer satisfaction, offering reliable and cutting-edge energy solutions to over 2.8 million customers across Georgia. Their commitment to providing clean and affordable energy is evident in their diverse energy production strategies, which include renewable resources such as solar and wind power.

Furthermore, the Atlanta Hawks have showcased their commitment to social issues, focusing on initiatives that positively affect the Atlanta community. The organization not only aims to entertain through basketball but also to foster community development through youth programs and initiatives addressing food insecurity.

This collaboration between Georgia Power and the Atlanta Hawks serves as a beacon of hope for HBCU students, representing a chance for them to gain practical experience, mentorship, and a foothold in their desired industries. As the deadline approaches for applications, all eyes will be on the program’s next cohort—students who will ultimately drive change and innovation in their fields.

Conclusion

The HBCU Pathways program exemplifies the commitment of both the Atlanta Hawks and Georgia Power to uplift and empower the talents of future leaders. By investing in these students, they are not just creating job opportunities but also fostering a culture of inclusivity and support that resonates throughout the Atlanta community and beyond.