KENNESAW, Ga. | Oct 6, 2021

The need for talented engineers in Georgia and across the country has grown exponentially, and a recent gift to Kennesaw State University’s Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (SPCEET) will support programs across several departments.

Leaders from SPCEET and Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. came together yesterday to celebrate the partnership and its future impact on KSU students, during an event on the University’s Marietta campus. Murata, a worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and sale of advanced electronic materials, announced the Futoshi “Fred” Chanoki Honorary Engineering Fund. Named after Murata Electronics North America’s first president, the funding will support the needs of the Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering, the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the KSU’s MakerSpace. 

“When we looked to deepen our engagement with SPCEET and the community, it was an obvious and unanimous choice to honor Fred,” said David Kirk, President and CEO, Murata Electronics North America. “For decades he has been a consummate champion of science, technology, math and engineering education at all levels of learning. He embodies the notion that sustainable innovation is derived from meaningful partnerships and mutual successes.”

Murata currently has more than 20 KSU engineering graduates working in its North American headquarters in Smyrna and throughout the country.

"Our College is grateful to extend our existing relationship with Murata through this generous gift. It will undoubtedly generate a lasting impact for our students," said Dean Ian Ferguson. "Industry partnerships are a vital part of the educational experience. We are proud that many of our graduates have used these opportunities to gain rewarding careers at Murata. This gift will further bolster this relationship and the first-class learning experiences available at KSU."

The $250,000 contribution will be awarded in $50,000 increments over the next five years. Beyond the financial aspect, Murata hopes the partnership will also cultivate the next set of future engineers.

– Abbey O’Brien Barrows

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A leader in innovative teaching and learning, Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees to its more than 47,000 students. Kennesaw State is a member of the University System of Georgia with 11 academic colleges. The university’s vibrant campus culture, diverse population, strong global ties and entrepreneurial spirit draw students from throughout the country and the world. Kennesaw State is a Carnegie-designated doctoral research institution (R2), placing it among an elite group of only 7 percent of U.S. colleges and universities with an R1 or R2 status. For more information, visit kennesaw.edu.