Tucson Standard

Raytheon, an RTX business, has announced a $2 million gift commitment to the University of Arizona's College of Engineering. This contribution will support the Student Design and Innovation Center (SDIC), which is set to feature collaborative classrooms, an advising center, and the Raytheon Student Leadership Suite. The SDIC will be located on East Speedway Boulevard and North Mountain Avenue.

University President Suresh Garimella expressed gratitude for this donation during a recent visit to Raytheon with Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. Borgonovi also serves on the College of Engineering Dean's Advisory Board. "It was such a pleasure to meet Barbara and to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the long history of partnership with Raytheon," Garimella stated. He added that he looks forward to continuing collaboration between Raytheon and the university.

Borgonovi emphasized Raytheon's enthusiasm for nurturing future engineering leaders: "The University of Arizona College of Engineering's Student Design and Innovation Center is a testament to the university's dedication to nurturing future engineers."

David W. Hahn, Craig M. Berge Dean of the college, noted that Raytheon's gift supports accommodating growth in student enrollment while helping realize plans for spaces where students can access academic support programs and high-tech equipment. "This named space is a key part of the SDIC plan," Hahn said.

The SDIC will host various student clubs such as Engineering Ambassadors and Wildcat Robotics, providing opportunities for community service and networking. "Students begin their professional development in clubs and organizations," Hahn explained.

Construction on the SDIC is expected within two to four years depending on fundraising efforts. Larry Head, director of the Craig M. Berge Engineering Design Program, highlighted how hands-on projects have impacted student development: "We have seen such engagement from students."

John-Paul Roczniak, president and CEO of the University of Arizona Foundation, commented on Raytheon's ongoing partnership with U of A: "Its philanthropic support helps ensure that students have the resources they need while on campus."

Raytheon's contribution forms part of U of A's Fuel Wonder campaign—a $3 billion fundraising effort aiming to enhance research in areas like cancer engineering and space sciences.