DES PLAINES, ILLINOIS (February 25, 2002) - Recognizing the importance of safety education, the Greater Baton Rouge Chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) and the ASSE Foundation recently established the Greater Baton Rouge-Don Jones Excellence in Safety Scholarship for students in the occupational safety, health and environment field.

The Greater Baton Rouge Chapter donated $2,500 to start the fund and the chapter's goal is to raise a total of $10,000 over the next few years. The scholarship will be awarded on an annual basis to students in occupational safety and health programs.

"This scholarship will help support future safety professionals who are as dedicated to the public and the profession as Don Jones, an outstanding example of a safety professional," said, Glenn Crowe, of Gonzales, LA, ASSE Greater Baton Rouge Chapter President.

Don Jones, of Baton Rouge, LA, serves as engineer and safety professional at Dow Chemical Company and has served various positions with the ASSE Greater Baton Rouge Chapter, including chapter president. He received the Edward Monsanto Queeny Safety Professional of the Year (SPY) Award last year and serves as administrator of the ASSE Management Practice Specialty and Vice-Chair of the Council on Practices and Standards. In addition, Jones chairs the Southeastern Louisiana State University Safety and Health Advisory Committee.

Funding for the Foundation comes from corporations and ASSE members - individual and through chapters countrywide. Through its programs the ASSE Foundation is committed to ensuring the future of the occupational safety and health profession by providing financial resources to individuals and organizations. Each year the Foundation awards funds for applied safety research, scholarships, fellowships, internships and professional development. Applications for these awards are available on-line at www.asse.org/foundat.htm.

Founded in 1911 and celebrating its 90th anniversary, ASSE is the oldest and largest professional safety and health organization and is dedicated to protecting people, property and the environment. Its over 30,000 members manage, supervise, and consult on safety, health and environmental issues in industry, insurance, government and education.