Hampton, Va. (May 31, 2024) – In a significant stride toward bridging the gap between higher education and federal employment, Hampton University has entered into a partnership with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). This collaboration aims to provide Hampton University students with a pathway to employment opportunities within the DLA, a vital component of the Department of Defense.
Former DLA Director Lt. Gen. Darrell K. Williams, now serving as the 13th president of Hampton University, hosted DLA Chief Information Officer Adarryl Roberts, and signed a memorandum of understanding between DLA/J6 and Hampton University during a recent campus visit.
This agreement will enable Hampton University students to access a wide array of opportunities within the DLA, ranging from internships and scholarships to full-time employment. The initiative is part of the DoD’s “Taking the Pentagon to the People” program, which seeks to engage with higher education institutions and cultivate a pipeline of talented young professionals to serve in various capacities within the Department of Defense.
“This new partnership with the DLA will significantly enhance the career prospects of our students by providing them with access to career opportunities within a critical national defense agency,” said President Williams. “Our students will gain invaluable experience and be well-prepared to contribute to the defense of our nation.”
The “Taking the Pentagon to the People” initiative is facilitated by the DoD’s Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI). The program provides valuable information about student opportunities for employment, internships, and scholarships, as well as insights into current and future roles in fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics, business, education, and the arts. Furthermore, it offers pathways for students and graduates to connect directly with DoD senior leaders, executives, and recruiters, while also providing faculty and staff with information on research, fellowships, sabbaticals, contracts, and grants.
“I am proud to say that DLA employees are the ‘secret sauce’ that makes DLA operations successful,” said President Williams, reflecting on his dual roles as both former DLA director and current university president. “Now, we are including our students at Hampton as part of that secret sauce needed to carry on this proud tradition.”
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University, a dynamic historically Black institution with a legacy of excellence in education, research, and community service, provides a nurturing and empowering environment for students to thrive academically and personally. Founded in 1868, Hampton emphasizes a scientific and professional curriculum with a strong liberal arts undergirding, offering a broad range of technical, liberal arts and graduate degree programs. With a commitment to inclusion and innovation, Hampton continues to be a beacon of educational leadership in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Named “Best Private College” in Virginia, HU is a tightly-knit community of learners and educators representing 49 states and 35 territories and nations. With a commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship, Hampton University prepares students to thrive in an ever-changing world. Visit www.hamptonu.edu. For media inquiries, please contact Sarita Scott, in the Office of University Relations, at 757.727.5253.