Alabama A&M, Florida A&M Graduates at the Wheel of 2005 Ford Black College Road Trip

DETROIT

Ford Motor Co. has announced its selection of Nikki Foster and Justin Hill as “Roadies” of the 2005 Ford Black College Road Trip. The 12-week trip, in which the roadies will promote the educational opportunities at historically Black colleges and Universities, will launch Labor Day weekend at the Detroit Football Classic at Ford Field, ending at the Bayou Classic in New Orleans, Nov. 26.

Foster and Hill will be handed the keys to a 2005 Ford Fusion as they set out on the adventure covering more than 10,000 miles, 40 cities and 10 HBCU classics. Foster, a recent graduate of Florida A&M University, and Hill, a recent graduate of Alabama A&M University, will film their exploits and keep a journal. They will also deliver school supplies to the auto technician, business applications, as well as the math and science curriculums at inner-city high schools. The roadies will also utilize the Fusion to deliver for “Meals on Wheels.”

“This program and its purpose is another example of our diversity-conscience mind set,” said David Rodriguez, Ford multicultural marketing manager. “These two young people are going to hit the road with a 2005 Ford Fusion, show their HBCU pride and give back to the community along the way.”

Foster, an Atlanta native, earned a degree in broadcast journalism and developed a passion for recruiting students at HBCU classics in Tallahassee.

“I think it gives me the opportunity to inform and inspire young people to see beyond perceived limitations,” she said. “By focusing on education, especially in a quality Black college environment, the possibilities are endless, regardless of socioeconomic standing. I loved my experience at Florida A&M and I can’t wait to share it with others.”