Microsoft Sponsors African American Contributions to the US Exhibition

Microsoft is no stranger to social-oriented efforts, especially those focused on minorities both in the US and around the world. The latest initiative from the Redmond-based company involves the America I AM: The African American Imprint exhibition, which is scheduled to debut at the Atlanta Civic Center come June 12, 2009.

The software giant is the official technology sponsor of the event, which, following its debut at the start of June, will continue for four more years as a mobile tour. Presented by Tavis Smiley, America I Am is designed to celebrate African American contributions to America.

“Our company continues to be committed to the communities in which we work and do business,” revealed Andrea Taylor, Microsoft’s director of community affairs for North America. “We hope that by providing organizations like America I AM with the services and technologies they need to grow and thrive, we are able to expand access to technology and bring innovation to underrepresented communities.”

The Redmond-based company is fueling the America I AM exhibition with a donation of both cash and software products, and is also working to relaunch the America I AM website. Neudesic LLC, a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner and National Systems Integrator, in partnership with Microsoft, has transitioned the online property to Office SharePoint Server 2007. The software giant promised that the full version of the website would be up and running in June 2009.

“Microsoft is a leader in creating platforms to provide access to information and I can't think of a better technology partner to rebuild the America I AM Web site,” Smiley stated. “We see this as a huge opportunity to increase and expand awareness about the exhibit. I am especially excited about the fact that our plans will allow visitors worldwide to meet virtually and learn about the contributions of African Americans.”