UMG TASK FORCE LAUNCHES HBCU INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Up to 50 current students and recent graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) will be brought into UMG’s summer internship program next June as part of the label group’s Task Force for Meaningful Change. The initiative springs from a partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF).

The UMG Historically Black Colleges and Universities Internship Program, as it has been straightforwardly dubbed, is slated to kick off on 6/1/21. The paid interns will work (under COVID protocols, naturally) at UMG’s NYC and L.A. offices; the cost of their travel and housing will be defrayed by the internships. An optional spring mentorship will also be available. Eligible sophomores, juniors and seniors may apply through 12/31 here.

UMG TFMC Co-Chairs Jeff Harleston (General Counsel/EVP of Business and Legal Affairs, UMG/Interim CEO, Def Jam) and Ethiopia Habtemariam (Motown President/Capitol Music Group EVP) issued this accompanying pronouncement: “This program reflects UMG’s dedication and responsibility to provide a more diverse and inclusive future and we are thrilled to partner with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. This internship program highlights both the remarkable talent within HBCUs and the commitment of our company, labels and brands to keep creating new pathways for identifying the next generation of industry leaders,”

“This partnership is an important opportunity for investment in the development of HBCU student career pathways into the music industry,” added Nicole Wyskoarko, IGA EVP, Co-Head of A&R and TFMC Internal Committee Co-Chair. “Today, while HBCUs make up 3% of all higher-education institutions in this country, they produce 25% of our country's African American college graduates. This program is an important and exciting initiative that will only enhance the development of future leaders at UMG and the music industry at large."

“Investing in, discovering and developing future talent is fundamental to UMG, and we’re pleased to partner with TMCF to not only give students a way to step into the music industry but to give our company a new opportunity to work with early career talent. This internship program is a reflection of UMG’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and an initiative that will have a wonderful impact on the company for years to come,” chimed in Eric Hutcherson, EVP, Chief People and Inclusion Officer, UMG.

“Our partnership with Universal Music Group will be a major game-changer for the students who attend our member schools,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, President & CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. “These summer internships will provide invaluable experience and launch the career trajectory for so many talented students looking to work in the music industry.”