Bank pledges $30,000 to Greenwood Genetic Center

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First Citizens Bank has pledged $30,000 over three years to help support the Greenwood Genetic Center’s mobile science lab and affiliated programs.

The Gene Machine bus and its companion vehicle, the Helix Express cargo van, travel throughout the school year visiting nearly 200 schools annually, according to a news release.

Genetics instructors travel with the vehicles and teach science students about genetic disorders, instruct them on using laboratory equipment, and introduce them to career opportunities in the fields of genetics and biotechnology and other areas of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The Gene Machine is beginning its 10th year of visiting middle and high schools across South Carolina.

“GGC has always held STEM education as a priority as we encourage our next generation of clinicians and scientists,” Steve Skinner, director of the Greenwood Genetic Center , said in the release. “Our outreach programs reach students at schools across our state with activities that foster enthusiasm for science, and First Citizens’ gift will help us make sure that we can continue to offer these engaging programs at no cost to schools.”

Jerry Stevens, senior vice president and market executive for First Citizens Bank, said the Greenwood Genetic Center’s educational opportunities “are inspiring students and guiding them toward fulfilling and important careers.”