Honoring 45 Years of Diversity and Women in Engineering

This campaign has concluded, but if you would like to still make a gift to support the School of Engineering, please click here.

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In 1983, Florence Boldridge, Director of Diversity and Women’s Programs at the KU School of Engineering, set out to inspire undergraduate females and students of color to become more than they ever imagined. Thirty-three years later, Boldridge remains the face of Diversity and Women’s Programs, which celebrates its 45th anniversary in April.

To commemorate the occasion, the Program’s Advisory Board set a lofty goal of raising $100,000. Dean Michael Branicky joined in saying that the School will recognize the effort by naming a conference room in Boldridge’s honor if $100,000 is raised. The space will house and honor alumni of diverse backgrounds who have achieved the highest level of success and who have given time and talent to ensure that Diversity and Women’s initiatives thrive with-in the KU School of Engineering. 

How Will the Funds be Used:

The Dean’s vision is to bring the best and brightest women and students of color to KU Engineering.

Student Opportunity Funds will provide students the chance to design and complete a unique experience that will shape their undergraduate education. Examples include working side by side with renowned professors making bandages that quicken the healing process, working with fellow students in India to bring water to a remote village, or simply teaching class to a group of fellow students. Cost to the school for each experience $500 - $2500.

Recruitment efforts that expose junior and senior high school girls and diverse student populations to the magic of engineering in action at summer camps  is our most successful strategy. Summer camp expenses cost the school approximately $20,000 annually.

A gift of any amount will help strengthen Diversity and Women’s Initiatives in engineering.  Specific examples include:

•A gift of $10,000 will enable  two students to study abroad.

•A gift of $5,000 will enable two students to perform undergraduate research with our best professors.

•A gift of $2,000 will enable four students to interact with industry leaders at national conferences.

•A gift of $1,000 will enable two students to present research findings at industry events.

•A gift of $500 will enable one high-school student to attend the KU Engineering Discovery Summer Camp.

•A gift of $250 will enable two middle school students to learn what engineering is at the KU School of Engineering Eureka Weekend.

•A gift of $100 will enable one high school student to attend the Society of Women Engineer’s Weekend of Engineering.

Thank you for your support.