WSSU secures $1M investment from Adobe for digital empowerment and student success

Winston-Salem State University has received a $1 million investment from Adobe Inc. to expand digital equity, leadership development and student success across campus.

The partnership, “Ram Powered: A Bold Investment in Leadership, Digital Empowerment, and Globally Minded Talent,” builds on WSSU’s national reputation as a leader in creative innovation and experiential learning.

“Adobe’s partnership underscores what we’ve always believed at WSSU: that access to cutting-edge technology can unlock purpose, creativity and opportunity for every student. We’re shaping future-ready Rams who will lead and innovate in a digital-first world,” said Chancellor Bonita Brown. "We thank Adobe for investing in WSSU and supporting our students."

Through this partnership, WSSU will embed Adobe tools and training across disciplines, ensuring students graduate not just with a degree, but with a digital skillset, a creative portfolio, and a clear path forward.

The $1 million award supports a comprehensive suite of initiatives designed to accelerate student success and institutional innovation. From equipping faculty to use generative AI in the classroom to preparing students to graduate with creative portfolios and digital credentials, the investment touches nearly every corner of campus life.

Funding will support nine key areas:

• Career Development Services – Enhancing digital résumé, e-portfolio, and video branding workshops.
• Faculty Professional Development in Generative AI – Training faculty to incorporate AI tools into curriculum and research.
• Department of Housing and Residence Life (NextGen TLC) – Establishing creative learning hubs in residential spaces.
• Office of Undergraduate Research – Supporting student research that cultivate digital fluency, global learning and mentorship.
• International Programs – Expanding study abroad and cross-cultural experiences with digital integration that implement Adobe tools.
• Faculty & Student Conferences – Showcasing WSSU innovation and scholarship on national stages.
• RAMS RISE Student Retention Model – Advancing holistic student success and persistence strategies.
• Rooted 365: A Sophomore Signature Experience – Guiding second-year students in purpose-driven academic exploration.
• WSSU Endowment – Sustaining long-term digital equity initiatives and innovation.

“We are proud that Adobe recognizes the power of the Ram,” said Kevan Turman, vice chancellor for University Advancement. “This investment strengthens our mission to prepare globally minded, technologically fluent leaders who make a difference in their communities and the world.”

WSSU has a robust and growing relationship with Adobe. It is the first HBCU to become an Adobe Creative Cloud Campus,  where all students, faculty and staff have full access to Adobe Creative Cloud. In August, Adobe named WSSU one of nine inaugural Creative Campus Innovators, recognizing universities that are leading the way in engaging students deeply with Adobe’s creativity, productivity, and AI tools across disciplines.

“Winston-Salem State University exemplifies how technology can drive opportunity,” said William Gibson, director of corporate/foundation engagement at WSSU. “This partnership reflects our shared vision to empower every learner to create, communicate and lead with confidence.”