Photo credit: www.yahoo.com
Grinnell College has received a substantial $10 million donation from the estate trust of the late Robert N. Noyce, a key figure in the tech industry and alum of the college. This contribution follows the passing of his widow, Ann Bowers, in 2024 and is aimed at enhancing computer science programs as well as supporting various initiatives within the institution, known for its comprehensive liberal arts education in the Midwest.
According to a statement from the college, $4 million will be allocated to create an endowed chair in computer science. The remainder of the funds will be distributed across different initiatives, including a curriculum development fund, an endowed scholarship, and a fund dedicated to acquiring scientific equipment. Furthermore, a portion of the donation will bolster the college’s Pioneer Fund, designed to address critical needs identified by the institution.
Robert Noyce, who passed away in 1990, played a pivotal role in the establishment of Intel Corporation—a global semiconductor giant that produces essential microchips for various technologies, ranging from smartphones to advanced medical devices. His vision allowed Grinnell College to invest in Intel’s early stock offerings, significantly boosting the college’s endowment and enabling it to attract exceptional students irrespective of their financial circumstances.
Grinnell College.
More: One-third of Grinnell College power to come from solar energy with new solar array
Recently, Grinnell College has earned recognition as the sole institution in Iowa featured in a list of America’s most selective colleges.
Ann Bowers, an influential executive at Intel and one of the few women in leadership roles during the company’s formative years, was an active supporter of both Grinnell and her alma mater, Cornell University, where her contributions have significantly impacted its computer science programming.
Rapid Growth in Computer Science Enrollment
In the announcement regarding the donation, Peter-Michael Osera, the chair of Grinnell’s computer science department, emphasized that the newly established endowed chair will empower the department to meet the escalating demand for expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence and data science.
“Computing has become integral to nearly every aspect of modern life,” Osera remarked, underscoring the department’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration that caters to students’ diverse academic interests.
From 2022: Grinnell College names new off-campus dorm after pioneering 108-year-old alum
The college has observed a remarkable growth in computer science enrollment, with the number of majors increasing more than ten-fold in the past decade. Many students are also pursuing dual majors to broaden their academic horizons.
Bernadine Douglas, Grinnell’s vice president for development and alumni relations, noted that Noyce was known not just for his technological contributions but also for his collaborative spirit and the positive impact of technology on society. Douglas expressed enthusiasm for observing how the values cherished by Noyce and Bowers translate into educational outcomes for future students and faculty members who will benefit from this generous gift.
This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Grinnell College gets $10M gift to boost computer science program
Source
www.yahoo.com