Fort Valley State University

From Alexandria to Fort Valley: Engineering major enjoying college success

Quietly confident, smart and well-spoken, Darren Williams fits the prototype of students that Fort Valley State University’s Cooperative Developmental Energy Program attracts. Recruited by Washington, D.C. area alumni chapter president Warren Hill, Williams is experiencing academic success in The Valley.

“I weighed the pros and cons of starting here (at Fort Valley State University) over Morehouse or Georgia Tech,” explains Williams. “Mr. Hill took the time to come to my house, explain the CDEP program, the scholarship, and the school.”

So far, the new wildcat enjoys the surroundings in Middle Georgia. Though he’s only spent a year on FVSU’s campus, the future engineer has taken enough courses to be classified as a sophomore and has a well-developed plan for success. “I want to learn as much as I can, not just in the classroom, but socially as well. I want to build a network that will help me in the future.” Williams participates in several campus activities. He is a member of the FVSU Concert Choir, president of the CDEP program for his class, and vice president of FVSU’s National Society of Black Engineers chapter.

“I like the program, and the school, because I have gotten involved,” he said. “The camaraderie with my classmates in CDEP helps; we all have the same schedules and get to know each other. And being in the choir is my passion.” The CDEP student plans to continue studies in either mechanical engineering or electrical engineering at Georgia Tech or the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, both partner schools of the CDEP program.
Darren is among 49 students who are currently enrolled in the dual-degree program. The high achievers spend three years at FVSU and major in mathematics, chemistry or biology. Later they transfer to a participating institution such as Penn State, the University of Texas at Austin or one of Darren’s choices to complete a second degree. After meeting the requirements of both programs, students receive two Bachelor of Science degrees: one degree from FVSU and the second degree from the collaborating university.

Founded by Dr. Isaac Crumbly, CDEP is the only program of its kind in the nation. It is designed to increase the number of minorities and women in the energy industry. To accomplish its objective, FVSU partners with major oil companies such as Exxon Mobile, Marathon and Chevron who contribute annually to the program. Government agencies and partner institutions also contribute money and resources to sustain the CDEP.