Gearbox Software announced today that they will help establish the Fellows Scholars program at The Guildhall at SMU. To this end, the developers of the Brother's in Arms series will pledge $50,000 in scholarships and support. Gearbox will also provide mentors for the students at SMU.

"The only thing growing faster than our industry is the critical need for new and creative talent," Randy Pitchford, Gearbox CEO and President, said. "I think it is clear that the video game industry has the vast financial support and consumer demand it needs to continue its global growth. But what I and many industry leaders are very worried about is hiring and retaining world class talent. That's why programs like The Guildhall at SMU need our support."

"It doesn't really surprise me that Randy was the first industry leader to support our Fellows Scholars program," Dr. Peter Raad, founder and executive director of The Guildhall at SMU, said. "Randy was instrumental in the formation of our program and has been a huge supporter. He believes, as we do, that we need to find ways to ensure financial barriers do not stand in the way for the very best students to attend our program and become contributing professionals and future leaders in the dynamic video games industry."