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Norfolk State University launches new program to equip students, staff with technology

Incoming and returning students will be given an iPad Pro for use both on and off campus, as well as an Apple Pencil, Apple Smart Keyboard Folio and AirPods Pro.

NORFOLK, Va. — Author's note: The above video is on file from August 26, 2021.

A new program is launching this fall at Norfolk State University to help students and staff with technology and lessons for app development. 

The Spartan Innovation Program is the first established campus-wide distribution of Apple products for an HBCU, according to a press release from NSU.

“The Spartan Innovation Academy program is all about giving students the tools they need to be successful in and outside of the classroom,” wrote NSU President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston. “The University is committed to access and affordability for all students. We know that providing access to powerful tools for learning will help ensure that our students will have a successful academic career while reducing the cost of obtaining a degree."

Incoming and returning students will be given an iPad Pro for use both on and off campus, as well as an Apple Pencil, Apple Smart Keyboard Folio and AirPods Pro. 

Over 6,000 Apple products in total will be given to students, select staff and faculty.  

Students can keep them while enrolled, and when they graduate, they can buy the products for a $1 fee. These devices can be used to create projects, download textbooks and more. 

This program builds on the university's participation in the Apple partnership with universities across the country, HBCU C^2, which establishes them as lead coding centers for app development. 

“Every student deserves the opportunity to use high quality tools that maximize learning opportunities and increase technological competencies,” said Virginia Secretary of Education Atif Qarni. “Apple’s collaboration with Norfolk State shows how public-private partnerships can uplift and energize a generation of students by providing enhanced learning experiences and equipping graduates with skills critical for success in the 21st century workforce.”

The program extends even further: qualifying students may receive MacBook Pro notebooks based on their major, labs will be opened with iMac desktop computers and there will be an Apple Professional Learning Specialist students can speak with. 

NSU will also partner with local K-12 schools for programs that encourage development of technology and creativity. 

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