Golden Anniversary Campaign for Florida Tech Raises Nearly $59.5 Million, Campaign Surpasses $50 Million Goal, Dramatically Enhances University’s Resources

MELBOURNE, FLA.—The Florida Institute of Technology officially concluded its 50th anniversary celebration on Sept. 26 announcing that the Golden Anniversary Campaign for Florida Tech had exceeded its $50 million goal, raising $59,465,000.37. The campaign, underway since 2004, benefits a range of areas—from scholarships to bricks and mortar facilities. Supporters celebrated the successful campaign conclusion at a ball for donors held in the Clemente Center.

“The spirit of the Golden Anniversary Capital Campaign is inextricably woven into the fabric of who we are as researchers, scientists and educators,” said Florida Tech President Anthony J. Catanese. “We look to the horizon and see not only what is, but what could be.”

“As I reflect on the campaign, I’m particularly gratified to consider the thousands of students who will reap its benefits,” said Campaign Chairman and Trustee Phillip W. Farmer. “Students from all walks of life, socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures and countries, now have new opportunities to pursue their dreams of an education thanks to expanded scholarship funds. Those seeking the latest in technology need look no further than the university’s enhanced physical resources. New faculty and new programs will give these students the means to pursue their educational ambitions and to succeed.”

Three examples of major gifts to the campaign:
• A $5 million grant by the Harris Corporation Charitable Fund through the Community Foundation of Brevard to create the Harris Institute for Assured Information. The Harris Institute will focus on developing advanced solutions to protect global information security. An additional $2 million is earmarked for research and development.
• A $5 million gift designed to enhance business offerings and strengthen online education, given by Nathan M. Bisk, one of the nation’s leaders in continuing education and online learning.
• A $1.5 million endowment to create the Farmer Scholars Program, given by Phillip W. Farmer. The retired chairman, president and chief executive officer of Harris Corporation said the gift was his way of recognizing the importance of scholarships for deserving students.

Other gifts include funding to build facilities and create programs for the Emil Buehler Center for Aviation Training and Research, the Scott Center for Autism Treatment, the Ruth Funk Center for Textile Arts, and the Northrop Grumman Engineering and Science Student Design Showcase.

“The completion of this successful campaign affords us the opportunity to look inward, as we focus on quantifying those resources that are required to continue the advancement of the university’s mission,” said Dale A. Dettmer, Chairman of the Florida Tech Board of Trustees. “The commitment to education and innovation is the core of our decision-making process. The storied history of this university stretches from the earth to the moon and beyond, and serves us well as we face the challenges of the future.”

“Foundations, corporations, individuals—all have stepped forward to affirm their belief in this university and its future,” said Kenneth Stackpoole, Senior Vice President for Advancement. “All have invested in that intangible yet all-important idea that Florida Tech’s brightest days are yet to dawn.”

PHOTO: President Anthony J. Catanese and Sara Catanese join the celebration at the President’s Ball.