Cooperative Developmental Energy Program


FVSU CDEP Partners with IMOLA To Enhance STEM Education & Workforce Development


Fort Valley State University, established in 1895, has a proud legacy of educating African American students and is nationally recognized for excellence in agriculture, engineering technology, and STEM fields. It is the founding institution of the visionary Cooperative Developmental Energy Program (CDEP), created by Dr. Isaac J. Crumbly to increase diversity in America’s energy and engineering workforce. Under Dr. Crumbly’s leadership, CDEP has evolved into a nationally acclaimed model, linking FVSU students with top-tier universities—including Georgia Tech, Penn State, and the University of Oklahoma—through dual-degree programs.    With over $12 million in scholarships awarded,  this program  stands as one of  the most  successful science and engineering driven STEM pipelines

IMOLA, CEO Rodney Henry and Isaac J. Crumbly, PhD, Founder of CDEP Sign CDEP Partnership Agreement

IMOLA Partnership Signing

IMOLA Automotive USA, CEO Rodney Henry expressed excitement for IMOLA’s future, stating, "What moves me is seeing students transform into leaders with the skills to succeed. We're proud to bring the first EV company to this area and create job opportunities that can uplift families and the community."

Isaac J. Crumbly, Ph.D., founder of CDEP, highlighted the significance of the agreement, noting, "This represents a monumental moment for FVSU and CDEP's legacy of developing STEM leaders. IMOLAS's support will equip our scholars with the tools to lead in the development of zero-emission vehicles."