Natick, MA (September 10, 2024) – The Community Foundation for MetroWest is thrilled to announce MathWorks, the leading developer of mathematical computing software, as the recipient of the 2024 Community Leadership Award. This prestigious award recognizes the organization’s unwavering commitment to develop and enrich the MetroWest community through its partnership with the Foundation’s Equity in Education Action Project. The Community Leadership Award will be presented at the Foundation’s Community Leadership Reception on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at the Residence Inn in Natick.

Investing in an Equitable Future

Launched in 2021, the Equity in Education Action Project is a collaborative initiative aimed at tackling educational disparities faced by students in underserved communities. The project prioritizes increasing access to high-quality, evidence-based programs that create a strong foundation for academic success in literacy and STEM fields. The multi-year investment of close to $1 million from MathWorks has allowed the Foundation to create and sustain these programs with the Framingham and Milford Public Schools with a goal to reach more districts. “By investing in these solutions, we’ve witnessed a significant increase in our education system’s ability to address gaps and inequities in student achievement,” said Jay Kim, Executive Director at the Community Foundation for MetroWest. “We believe that equity in education is a key to fostering a stronger, more equitable society for all.”

Beyond Funding: MathWorks Partnership Fuels Effective Equity in Education

The organization’s dedication to the Equity in Education Action Project goes beyond providing financial support. MathWorks formed an internal and external stakeholder Equity in Education

steering committee, demonstrating their deep commitment to the initiative. This committee played a crucial role in assessing needs, developing a strategic plan for resource allocation, and ensuring the effective implementation of the project’s initiatives.

“At MathWorks, we believe that everyone deserves access to a quality education that unlocks their full potential,” said Jeanne O’Keefe, CFO and SVP at MathWorks, “Receiving the Community Foundation for MetroWest’s Community Leadership Award for our work on the Equity in Education Action Project is a tremendous honor. This award validates our commitment to fostering educational equity in MetroWest and inspires us to continue collaborating with the Foundation to help all students in the region thrive.”

The Community Foundation for MetroWest will leverage this partnership, and others, to continue implementing and expanding critical initiatives that address achievement gaps in MetroWest schools to ensure all students have the resources they need to succeed.

About The Community Foundation for MetroWest 

In 1995, the Community Foundation for MetroWest became the trusted philanthropic partner for individuals, families, nonprofits, and businesses in the region who are driven to enhance the quality of life for all in MetroWest. Since then, the Foundation has developed extensive programming (including Equity in Education, Housing and Homelessness Prevention, Workforce Development and Arts & Culture) and awarded more than $34 million in grants to charitable organizations. The Foundation currently stewards more than $30 million in charitable assets for current needs and future impact. To learn more about the Foundation’s commitment to improved quality of life in MetroWest, visit communityfoundationmw.org or call (508) 647-2260.

About MathWorks

MathWorks is the leading developer of mathematical computing software. MATLAB, the language of engineers and scientists, is a programming environment for algorithm development, data analysis, visualization, and numeric computation. Simulink is a block diagram environment for simulation and Model-Based Design of multidomain and embedded engineering systems. Engineers and scientists worldwide rely on these products to accelerate the pace of discovery, innovation, and development in automotive, aerospace, communications, electronics, industrial automation, and other industries. MATLAB and Simulink are fundamental teaching and research tools in the world’s top universities and learning institutions. Founded in 1984, MathWorks employs more than 6,000 people in 34 offices around the world, with headquarters in Natick, Massachusetts, USA. For additional information, visit mathworks.com.