The 2006 Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund Corporate Leadership Award recognizes support for public historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and African-American students. The Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund Inc. applauded Microsoft's contributions on Oct. 23 in New York City. The Corporate Leadership Award is an annual event designed for the corporate environment committed to supporting public HBCUs.

"Microsoft is honored that the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund has chosen to recognize our commitment to help diverse students achieve their full potential," said Lisa Brummel, senior vice president of Human Resources at Microsoft. "We hope that our contributions of over $15 million to the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund will continue to provide HBCU students with access to technology tools, skills and innovation to be competitive in the changing global economy."

"The Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund and Microsoft share a common vision for HBCUs," said Dwayne Ashley, president of the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund. "Microsoft is one of our largest donors, and its support is critical in ensuring that African-American students have access to well-equipped learning environments and staff regardless of their economic status."