ROCKVILLE, Md., Feb. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] donated $10,000 to The Maryland Center at Bowie State University to advance participation and performance of students in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM).

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The donation will assist Bowie State University in continuing its focus on the development of comprehensive educational programs aimed at recruitment, retention, graduation and matriculation in STEAM and STEAM-related disciplines of study. It will also help the university build a foundation to establish the Education Innovation Initiative (EI²) career pathways program within Prince George's County, Md.

The Maryland Center's EI² program is Bowie State University's marquee PreK-20 STEAM academic enrichment program that gives under-represented students in Prince George's County insight into various career paths.

"Lockheed Martin has been supporting technology innovation in all academic levels within the Prince George's County, Md., education system for more than a decade," said Vicki Schmanske, vice president of Lockheed Martin's IT & Security Solutions. "We are committed to educating and inspiring tomorrow's technologists, scientists, engineers and mathematicians. The EI² program presents the perfect opportunity to continue our support in a manner that presents innovative career pathways to all ages between preschool and college."

By incorporating STEAM principals and skills through project-based learning, EI² provides students with increased access to "real world" experiences that better prepare them for professional career paths in STEAM. The EI² mission will provide Bowie State University students with equitable access to all STEAM learning resources using virtual desktops with individualized learning technologies, high-definition audio/video on mobile devices and advanced telepresence technologies.  

"The Bowie State University community appreciates Lockheed Martin's investment in The Maryland Center at BSU and the Education Innovation Initiative," stated Bowie State University President Mickey L. Burnim. "The university's partnership with Lockheed Martin represents a shared commitment to preparing students, especially in Prince George's County, for workforce opportunities in STEAM-related disciplines. We are confident the EI² program will invigorate our students and offer them a platform for success in a global, high-tech marketplace."

The Maryland Center is a non-profit organization and affiliated foundation of Bowie State University. The center's focus is to promote, sponsor and implement activities that enhance and further the educational, research and service mission of the university.

Lockheed Martin plays an active role in helping to strengthen the quality of life in the communities where its employees live and work. The Corporation contributes generously to national and local non-profit organizations that focus on STEM education. As part of its efforts to educate and inspire tomorrow's scientists, engineers and mathematicians, Lockheed Martin's approach to STEM outreach includes support for programs, events and campaigns that focus on student achievement, teacher development, and gender and ethnic diversity.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs about 120,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products, and services.  The Corporation's net sales for 2012 were $47.2 billion.

For additional information, visit our website: http://www.lockheedmartin.com

SOURCE Lockheed Martin