National Grid's Project C Supports OCC's Esports Student Athletes

Onondaga Community College's newest sports team has a big win to celebrate!

National Grid's Project C, which supports people, programs, and projects across New York State, is giving $20,000 for the College's Esports student athletes and the new Esports Arena in the Gordon Student Center.

The Lazers Esports team began competing on an intramural level during the fall 2022 semester while their home was under construction. Multiple student athletes finished in the top ten nationally, and one even won a national championship. Over the semester break, 23 gaming stations were completed and outfitted with ergonomic chairs. The Esports Arena is a couple of cosmetic touches away from completion!

Support from National Grid's Project C will help OCC Esports Head Coach Keith Edwards expose team members to potential STEM career opportunities, stay on track academically, and support future goals. Funds will also support the purchase of equipment and a staff member who will help student athletes excel academically.

"We're so grateful for National Grid's support through their Project C program. Their vision and commitment to STEM education and related career opportunities will impact today's student-athletes and tomorrow's families across Central New York. Because 85% of our graduates live and work within 25 miles of our campus, National Grid's Project C is an investment in our entire region," said OCC President Dr. Warren Hilton.

OCC's Esports program and new Esports Arena were highlighted in a story by Spectrum News and reporter Brad Vivacqua during the spring 2023 semester.

"Esports often gets labeled as 'playing video games' when it in fact is so much more. It is another way to introduce STEM concepts to students, while reinforcing soft skills like teamwork, persistence, and problem-solving. Our support of Onondaga Community College's new Esports Arena provides enrichment through play, which studies show is an important platform for lifelong learning," said Alberto Bianchetti, National Grid's Regional Director of Customer and Community Engagement.

Project C embodies National Grid's values to do the right thing, find a better way, and make it happen. Project C has four key priorities:

• Clean energy and sustainability.
• Workforce development.
• Neighborhood investment and community engagement.
• Environmental justice and social equity.

From neighborhood beautification to workforce development, National Grid is thinking beyond conventional energy delivery services and helping to create a more equitable future for every customer and neighborhood it serves.