1Finity, Epolleo and Richardson ISD Join Forces for Biodiversity Education Initiative

1Finity Partners with Epolleo and Richardson ISD

1Finity, a subsidiary of Fujitsu and a prominent global network solutions provider, has launched a significant initiative aimed at fostering STEM education among students. This program, kicked off on Earth Day 2026, represents a year-long partnership with Epolleo and the Richardson Independent School District (RISD) to promote biodiversity education.

Aims of the Biodiversity Education Program

The partnership is fueled by a grant from the Fujitsu Community Grant Program awarded to Epolleo, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving microbial diversity. The primary goal of this initiative is to engage the next generation of scientists and engineers by immersing them in hands-on STEM activities. Students from RISD will focus specifically on microbial biodiversity, collecting and documenting biological samples from various environments such as soil, plants, and insects.

Kickoff Event on Earth Day

On April 22, 2026, 1Finity volunteers collaborated with over 160 students from RISD MST Magnet Elementary for an exciting field activity. They collected samples from the school grounds which will subsequently be sent to Epolleo’s facility in South Dakota for analysis. This initiative marks a significant expansion of Epolleo's STEM outreach and is the first time they have extended this program beyond their home state.

Statements from Leadership

Rod Naphan, CEO of 1Finity Americas, expressed, "With this grant program, 1Finity reinforces our dedication to local community engagement and the advancement of invaluable STEM education. This initiative not only supports our local communities but also aligns with our commitment to address global environmental challenges."

Tabitha Branum, superintendent of RISD, expressed gratitude for the partnership: "On behalf of our Richardson ISD community, we greatly value the long-term local support and technology partnership provided by 1Finity and Fujitsu. This collaboration enhances STEM-focused learning experiences for our students."

Tina Jennen, Epolleo's Executive Director, highlighted the importance of the program: "This research and educational initiative is a critical step in fulfilling our mission to support biotech innovation and ecological resilience through open-access science and community engagement. We are immensely thankful for the Fujitsu Community Grant that enables this research."

Community Impact

The Fujitsu Community Grant Program emphasizes the significance of fostering collaboration and disaster relief initiatives that contribute to a more sustainable society. By implementing this biodiversity education initiative, 1Finity, Epolleo, and RISD hope to inspire students and stimulate interest in STEM fields, ultimately cultivating a new generation that prioritizes environmental sustainability.

This partnership serves as a tangible example of how corporations can positively influence educational landscapes, empower youth, and address critical global challenges through community involvement and innovative programming. As the initiative progresses, it will pave the way for students to explore careers in science and technology while also contributing to vital ecological research.

As we move forward, the partnership between 1Finity, Epolleo, and RISD stands to not only educate students but also foster an early appreciation for biodiversity and sustainability, both vital for the future of our planet.