![\"Professor](\"https:\/\/clemson.world\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/08\/Forever-PNC-foundation.jpg\")
<\/a>Professor Sandra Linder (standing) is helping lead the program to provide childcare teachers and home-based caregivers with skills that support mathematics learning among young children.<\/p><\/div>
\nSupport for developing math skills, simulation software for automotive engineering and a state-of-the-art digital press may not seem to have a lot in common. But all three of these will be pivotal in educating Clemson students for the future. And they\u2019re all the results of gifts from corporations and foundations that are valuable partners with the University.
\nThe PNC Foundation and the Eugene T. Moore School of Education agree that it\u2019s never too early to develop math skills. The PNC Foundation has awarded Project BEEMS (Building Environments for Early Mathematics Success) a $50,000 grant to support the program that supports mathematics learning among young children across the state and nation.
\nThe first year of Project BEEMS, also funded by the PNC Foundation, took place in 12 Head Start centers and showed very positive results. Forming an early mathematical understanding can be particularly helpful in establishing problem-solving and communication skills, according to Sandra Linder, project director and associate professor of early childhood mathematics education.
\n\u201cThe project is part of the Eugene T. Moore School of Education\u2019s continuing focus on systematically improving education and an example of the school\u2019s commitment to underserved communities,\u201d said Dean George J. Petersen. \u201cWe are proud and thankful to be partnering with the PNC Foundation on this project.\u201d
\nWhen graphic communications and packaging science students return to campus this fall, they\u2019ll find an HP Indigo 5000 Digital Press in place and ready to use, thanks to a gift valued at $505,825 from Hewlett Packard. More than 600 students, many of whom will receive industry certification, will have hands-on experience using the press each year.
\nAs growth opportunities in the digital print market shift from commercial printing to packaging, the need for talent also shifts. Clemson is uniquely positioned to work closely with HP Indigo to develop a pipeline of capable talent and meet the needs of industry. Having hands-on experience using the HP Indigo gives Clemson students invaluable access to a growing market segment through internship and career opportunities.
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