This past fall, 62 students in Washington University’s School of Engineering & Applied Science and Olin Business School started the academic year with less worry about the cost of their education. These young men and women were the first of an expanded cohort of students to benefit from increased scholarship support provided by the Boeing Co.
Boeing, a longtime sponsor of scholarships, is helping a record number of students at the university achieve their full potential through a $3 million commitment made in late 2016. The five-year pledge raised the company’s total contribution to Leading Together: The Campaign for Washington University to more than $6.8 million.
“Increasing resources for scholarships is one of Washington University’s most important priorities and a key goal of our Leading Together campaign,” says Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton. “We are grateful that Boeing shares our vision of a future in which every student has access to educational opportunities that allow them to develop their skills, pursue their dreams, and build a better world.”
At the School of Engineering & Applied Science, the company’s commitment boosts the number of Boeing scholarships awarded to undergraduates each year from 17 to 45. This includes 16 scholarships for students enrolled in the University of Missouri–St. Louis and Washington University in St. Louis Joint Undergraduate Engineering Program. The commitment also supports Washington University’s Summer Engineering Fellowship Program, which enables a diverse group of undergraduate students from across the country to engage in engineering research.
“Boeing is committed to inspiring and preparing the next generation of innovators through its support of exceptional young engineering students of all backgrounds,” says Kristin Robertson, vice president and chief engineer for Boeing’s Strike, Surveillance, and Mobility division. “We are honored to partner with Washington University and the University of Missouri–St. Louis to help today’s students become the engineering leaders of tomorrow.”
Beyond the engineering school, Boeing is providing additional funding to support graduate scholarships for eligible U.S. military veterans enrolled in Olin Business School, increasing the number of business scholarships the company sponsors each year from 8 to 17. In addition, the company is supporting the Olin Veterans Association to help veterans at Olin make a successful transition into the business world. The association connects students to the business community through internships, mentor partnerships, employer site visits, and networking events.
“One in seven Boeing employees has served our nation in the military and brings leadership, commitment, and a unique perspective to the workplace,” says Shelley Lavender, EMBA ’03, senior vice president of the Strike, Surveillance, and Mobility division and a member of the Olin Business School National Council.
“Our gift will help ensure that today’s veterans have the opportunity to achieve their educational goals and prepare themselves to continue to have an impact in their communities.”
Boeing has a long history of investing in Washington University. The relationship began in 1956, when the university received its first grant from the McDonnell Aircraft Corp., which became the McDonnell Douglas Corp. after a merger with the Douglas Aircraft Co. in 1967. The combined corporation went on to merge with Boeing in 1997. Over the years, the three companies have provided significant support for university students, faculty members, and programs.
“The longstanding relationship between Boeing and Washington University has touched every aspect of our mission to teach, discover, and serve,” Chancellor Wrighton says. “We are fortunate to count the company among our most generous and supportive corporate partners.”
