Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia funds total $1.5 million toward West Point and THINC academy

Published 12:00 am Saturday, August 15, 2015

Contributed report

Randy Jackson, KMMG’s senior vice president of human resources and administration, left, presents a check for $600,000 to the THINC College and Career Academy. Also pictured holding the check are Georgia Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and Kathy Carlisle, THINC CEO.

http://lagrangenews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/37/2015/08/web1_WEB0816KiaTHINC.jpgRandy Jackson, KMMG’s senior vice president of human resources and administration, left, presents a check for $600,000 to the THINC College and Career Academy. Also pictured holding the check are Georgia Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle and Kathy Carlisle, THINC CEO.

Submitted

Randy Jackson, KMMG’s senior vice president of human resources and administration, right, presents a check for $900,000 to West Point Mayor Drew Ferguson IV.

http://lagrangenews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/37/2015/08/web1_WEB0816KiaWestPoint.jpgRandy Jackson, KMMG’s senior vice president of human resources and administration, right, presents a check for $900,000 to West Point Mayor Drew Ferguson IV.

Submitted

WEST POINT — Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia Inc. has provided $1.5 million in combined funding this summer to the city of West Point — $900,000 — and THINC College and Career Academy — $600,000.

“The city of West Point and THINC College and Career Academy are vital partners for KMMG now and in the years ahead,” said Randy Jackson, KMMG’s senior vice president of human resources and administration. “KMMG is committed to being a good corporate citizen and we know that our success would not be possible without the unwavering spirit of teamwork we have seen in this region.”

KMMG’s $900,000 in funding to West Point is all part of an overall $6.65 million commitment to the city over the next several years that included funding for $850,000 in 2013 and $900,000 in 2014.

“The city of West Point is thankful for KMMG’s support to stimulate development in West Point,” said Mayor Drew Ferguson IV. “KMMG continues to be a tremendous partner for the city of West Point.”

KMMG’s $600,000 in funding to THINC is part of a $3 million commitment which includes funding for $600,000 in 2013 and $600,000 in 2014.

THINC College and Career Academy is a charter school that celebrated its grand opening on July 30 and began classes on Aug. 10. It will utilize partnerships with local businesses and industries to better prepare students for college and careers.

THINC provides students with a variety of different pathways and career exploration opportunities and also gives students the opportunity to receive college credit through advanced placement courses and dual-enrollment.

“We are so happy with Kia’s vision and willingness to support students in this region,” said Kathy Carlisle, CEO of THINC. “This funding and Kia’s great leadership are paving the way for such a bright future for so many students.”

From a press release submitted by Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia.