Nissan welcomes African American students to Middle Tennessee for leadership and education summit

• Nissan to host more than 70 African American high school students at its North American Headquarters during Black History Month
• Partnering with six chapters of 100 Black Men of America, Nissan will host its Next Gen Summit from February 20-21
• Students to tour Nissan headquarters, Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant and Nissan Stadium

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Feb. 20, 2020) – During the 2020 Next Gen Summit, high school students from six cities across the country − Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Jackson (Miss.), Nashville and Washington, D.C. − will meet with Nissan leaders and participate in workshops to prepare themselves for a successful future.

The students are selected through a process that includes a recommendation from their school, resume submission and an interview with representatives from their local chapter of 100 Black Men of America. Students with the most robust resume and interview skills were invited to attend the 2020 Nissan Next Gen Summit, sponsored by Nissan.

“We’re thrilled to welcome a new group of student leaders to our headquarters,” says Rodney Francis, director of Diversity and Inclusion. “Every year, we enjoy interacting with young men identified as up-and-comers in their community and giving them a glimpse into the inner workings of our business. It’s our hope that they leave inspired and equipped with tips for success in school and in life.”

During their experience in the Nashville area, the students will travel to Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans, where they will meet with Titans alumni Kevin Dyson, Blaine Bishop and Chris Sanders.

“It’s not a coincidence that we are hosting the Next Gen Summit during Black History Month,” says Francis. “Part of Nissan’s celebration of black culture and heritage is providing opportunities for the next generation of black youth.”

John E. Hardy, executive director, 100 Black Men of Jackson, Inc., says that the event is much anticipated by youth in his community.

“The Nissan Next Gen Summit provides a prism of employment opportunities and life experiences for the students in attendance,” says Hardy. “It lends credence to the motto of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. − ‘What They See Is What They’ll Be.’”

Over its seven-year partnership with 100 Black Men of America, more than 350 students have participated in the Nissan Next Gen Summit or related events.

About Nissan North America

In North America, Nissan’s operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and has been recognized annually by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency as an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year since 2010. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and INFINITI vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infinitiusa.com, or visit the U.S. media sites NissanNews.com and infinitinews.com.

About Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

Nissan is a global full-line vehicle manufacturer that sells more than 60 models under the Nissan, INFINITI and Datsun brands. In fiscal year 2018, the company sold 5.52 million vehicles globally, generating revenue of 11.6 trillion yen. Nissan’s global headquarters in Yokohama, Japan, manages operations in six regions: Asia & Oceania; Africa, the Middle East & India; China; Europe; Latin America; and North America. Nissan has partnered with French manufacturer Renault since 1999 and acquired a 34% stake in Mitsubishi Motors in 2016. The Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance sold 10.76 million vehicles combined in calendar year 2018.

For more information about our products, services and commitment to sustainable mobility, visit nissan-global.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn and see all our latest videos on YouTube.

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Excerpt:
“We’re thrilled to welcome a new group of student leaders to our headquarters,” says Rodney Francis, director of Diversity and Inclusion. “Every year, we enjoy interacting with young men identified as up-and-comers in their community and giving them a glimpse into the inner workings of our business. It’s our hope that they leave inspired and equipped with tips for success in school and in life.”

Photo Caption:
During their experience in the Nashville area, the students will travel to Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans, where they will meet with Titans alumni Kevin Dyson, Blaine Bishop and Chris Sanders. (Photo: usa.nissannews.com)

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