October 31, 2025 — Lexington, S.C. — During the Lexington County School District One School Board meeting on October 21, 2025, Michelin North America, Inc. was recognized for its annual $15,000 contribution to the Lexington One Educational Foundation.
Representing Michelin’s US5 facility were Plant Manager Nicolas Paumont-Crausse and Quality Manager Will Salley. Accepting the donation on behalf of the Foundation were Vice Chair Katrina D. Bryant, Past Chair Lisa McMeekin Phillips, Board Members Will Salley and Melissa Moore, School Board Liaison Nicholas Pizzuti, and Executive Director Julie Anderson Washburn.
“The Educational Foundation’s Board of Directors is extremely grateful for Michelin’s continued generosity,” said Washburn. “This investment directly benefits students by expanding their opportunities to build valuable STEM and career skills.”
For more than 20 years, Michelin has partnered with the Educational Foundation to fund Michelin Golden Apple Teacher Grants, providing $5,000 annually in $500 awards to district teachers. These grants enable educators to purchase classroom materials such as STEM kits and books that enhance student learning.
In addition, Michelin’s 3-year, $30,000 partnership, first established in 2018 and renewed twice since, supports Lexington District One’s middle and high school VEX Robotics teams. This $10,000 annual commitment has helped 10 schools during the 2025–2026 school year strengthen students’ STEM and technical skills—preparing them for future careers in engineering, robotics, and manufacturing.
Michelin’s support extends beyond funding. The company’s US5 and US7 sites have also financed a STEM lab at Meadow Glen Middle School, sponsored Educational Foundation special events, and encouraged employees to serve as mentors at schools such as Red Bank Elementary.
“At Michelin, being a responsible corporate citizen means making a positive impact in the communities where we live and work,” said Paumont-Crausse. “By investing in STEM programs, we’re helping to create the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.”
The Lexington One Educational Foundation expressed its appreciation to Michelin for its ongoing partnership and commitment to improving educational outcomes across the district.
SIDEBAR: Michelin’s Impact at a Glance
Annual Contribution: $15,000
Partnership Established: 2003 (22 years of continuous support)
Programs Funded:
- Michelin Golden Apple Teacher Grants — $5,000 annually for classroom innovation
- Michelin VEX Robotics Grants — $10,000 annually for middle and high school robotics teams
- STEM Lab Support — Funded at Meadow Glen Middle School
- Employee Mentorships — Ongoing at multiple Lexington One schools
Quote:
“Supporting the Lexington One Educational Foundation is one way we can help empower students to reach their full potential.”
— Nicolas Paumont-Crausse, Plant Manager, Michelin US5 Facility
Learn More: www.Lex1EdFound.org
PHOTO CAPTION:
Pictured (left to right): Lisa McMeekin Phillips, Katrina D. Bryant, Dr. Keith Price, Nicolas Paumont-Crausse, Will Salley, Julie Anderson Washburn, Melissa Moore, and Nicholas Pizzuti.
