The following article was originally posted on November 13, 2018 via the Iowa State University Foundation.
AMES, Iowa – The Boeing Company made a $6 million commitment to Iowa State University that will enhance the educational experience for all students at Iowa State, inspire innovation on the university’s campus, and support engineering students interested in research.
A significant portion of Boeing’s gift will support construction of the Student Innovation Center, the approximately 140,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art building that will serve as the hub on campus for hands-on projects where students can collaborate across a wide range of disciplines.
With construction funded through the Iowa legislature and private support, the Student Innovation Center will be a flagship facility elevating Iowa State’s commitment to interdisciplinary, experiential learning and enriching the learning experience for thousands of students across the university. The anticipated completion date of the facility is January 2020.
Students from all of Iowa State’s undergraduate colleges will use the Student Innovation Center, which will provide space for individual and group activities and capstone projects, and for classes and student clubs involved in hands-on learning. The space will offer resources for planning, designing and making, including labs and workshops featuring state-of-the-art tools and technology.
“Boeing is committed to inspiring the next generation of innovators and equipping them with the skills they need to excel in the modern workforce,” said Dennis Muilenburg, Boeing chairman, president and chief executive officer. “The Student Innovation Center at Iowa State University will help encourage innovation on campus and in graduates’ future careers, positioning them for success in STEM-related fields.”
In addition, part of Boeing’s commitment will provide financial support for engineering students seeking to broaden and enhance their educational experience by participating in undergraduate research.
“The foresight Boeing has shown through its long-standing support of hands-on collaborative learning environments across campus and educational opportunities beyond the classroom is a testament to its innovative focus as a company and its commitment to ensuring engineering students are well-prepared for early success in their careers,” said Sarah A. Rajala, James L. and Katherine S. Melsa Dean of Engineering at Iowa State University.
In the Iowa State University College of Engineering, undergraduate students in all eight academic departments are actively engaged in meaningful research experiences. Many departments have year-end events where students highlight their work, and students are invited to participate in Iowa State’s Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression, a day-long symposium during which undergraduates from all academic disciplines share their research.
Boeing’s engagement at Iowa State brings together philanthropic investment with consistent support of the educational experience. Company representatives are involved in student organizations and competitions, classroom visits and student recruitment. Through their service on advisory councils at Iowa State, industry experts from Boeing are helping to enrich curricula, enhance governance and increase awareness of issues related to diversity and women. Boeing supports several Iowa State programs that immerse students in activities that test their skills and build their knowledge within their major.
About The Iowa State University Foundation
The Iowa State University Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization committed to securing and managing gifts that benefit Iowa State University. The Forever True, For Iowa State campaign, with a historic goal to raise $1.5 billion, will help support Iowa State in becoming the premier land-grant university for the 21st century and beyond.
About The Boeing Company
Through purposeful investments, employee engagement and thoughtful advocacy efforts, Boeing and its employees support innovative partnerships and programs that align with the company’s strategic objectives, create value and help build better communities worldwide.
Chicago-based Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners and defense, space and security systems. A top U.S. exporter, the company supports airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150 countries.
See how Boeing is making a difference for Our Future, Our Heroes and Our Homes by visiting the 2018 Boeing Global Engagement Portfolio at Boeing.com/community.
Engage with us on social @Boeing with #BoeingInspires.
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Contacts
Elaine Watkins-Miller, Communications, Iowa State University Foundation, 515.294.1005, ewmiller@foundation.iastate.edu
Jason Capeheart, Boeing Communications, 312.544.2568, jason.s.capeheart@boeing.com
Read the artilce at www.foundation.iastate.edu
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