RDE: Historic $5M Donation Transforms Farmingdale State College's Engineering Technology Education
- Farmingdale State College received a historic $5 million donation, establishing The Murray Pasternack School of Engineering Technology.
- The funding will provide at least 56 scholarships annually, targeting underrepresented students in STEM, especially women.
- Pasternack's commitment enhances mentorship programs and co-curricular resources, fostering innovation in engineering education at FSC.
Farmingdale State College Secures Historic Commitment for Engineering Technology Education
Farmingdale State College (FSC) has secured a groundbreaking $5 million commitment from alumnus Murray Pasternack, marking a significant milestone for the institution and its engineering technology department, which is now officially named The Murray Pasternack School of Engineering Technology. This donation not only represents the largest gift ever received by FSC but also ranks as one of the most substantial contributions to the technology colleges within the State University of New York (SUNY) system. The funding aims to enhance educational opportunities for students pursuing degrees across 15 majors, particularly in fields such as computing, electrical engineering, renewable energy, and software engineering.
The primary focus of Pasternack's donation is to provide scholarships, with a goal to award a minimum of 56 four-year scholarships annually. These scholarships specifically target students who are less likely to enter STEM careers, with a strong emphasis on encouraging female participation in engineering and technology fields. This initiative aligns closely with New York Governor Kathy Hochul's Workforce Development agenda, which seeks to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving job market. In addition to scholarship support, the funding is designed to enhance student mentorship and provide co-curricular resources and programs that empower students to succeed in these vital sectors.
Robert S. Prezant, President of FSC, expresses gratitude for Pasternack's enduring commitment to the college and the profound impact this gift could have on students in need. Pasternack, who understands firsthand the challenges of managing work alongside education, hopes that his contribution will pave the way for successful futures for students, ultimately benefiting the local community. His dedication to making education accessible for aspiring engineers and technologists underscores the importance of investments in education that prepare students to thrive in demanding fields.
In addition to the scholarship initiative, the funding will bolster mentorship programs that provide guidance and support to students as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. The enhancement of co-curricular resources aims to create a more enriching educational environment, fostering collaboration and innovation among students. This commitment by Pasternack not only transforms the landscape of engineering education at FSC but also serves as a model for other institutions seeking to address workforce development challenges in STEM sectors.