Amazon partners with NSU, ODU for workers’ benefit

NORFOLK — Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University are partnering with Amazon to offer the retail giant’s hourly employees access to undergraduate degrees and certificate programs.

The Career Choice program provides such things as pre-paid college tuition and industry certifications to support Amazon workers in helping them prepare for in-demand, higher paying jobs.

“We’re thrilled to have Norfolk State University and Old Dominion University on board as Education Partners for Career Choice, adding to the hundreds of best-in-class offerings available to our employees,” said Tammy Thieman, Global Program Lead of Amazon’s Career Choice program, in a release.

According to Amazon, the program would benefit more than 5,000 region employees. Those who participate would receive assistance going through their education programs and job placement through the partnership to help lead the employees to “career success.”

“Old Dominion University is dedicated to directly serving the Hampton Roads community,” ODU President Brian Hemphill said in a release. “Becoming an Amazon Career Choice school continues our commitment to bettering the lives and careers of workers in the region.”

More information can be found on the ODU and NSU websites; both said that tuition, books and school fees are paid for by Amazon.

“Since inception, Norfolk State University has met students where they are and offered a supportive academic and culturally diverse environment for students to realize their dreams,” NSU President Javaune Adams-Gaston said in a release. “Partnering with Amazon to become a Career Choice school provides another avenue to continue our mission.”

The program is open to Amazon hourly employees who have worked with the company for at least 90 days.