My choice to give back to the college was based primarily on how I was treated by the civil engineering faculty and staff during my time on campus. I found that I was more than a number and their doors were always open for whatever I needed. I have very fond memories of and feel grateful for my time at the College of Engineering. I truly enjoyed football Saturdays and watching the marching band, and often find myself retelling stories of what went on in the student section back then. The other memory that jumps to mind is my time in Chi Epsilon. We had some very fun gatherings and Professor Jim Clapp was always there to play his washtub bass. Those gatherings helped strengthen my friendships with classmates and professors and are very fond memories.
I have switched careers to information technology and no longer have day-to-day contact with the civil engineering community in general — but I have maintained my connection to the college by occasionally having lunch with CEE Professor Jeff Russell. He is a friend and keeps me up to date on what is going on within the CEE department and the college at large.
I have been at the UW Foundation for almost 13 years now and it has positively influenced my decision to give back to the university. My awareness has been raised around the needs of campus and funding shortfalls that keep real advancements from taking place. The UW Foundation’s vision statement is “Philanthropy will mean the difference between the maintenance of a great university and the evolution of an extraordinary one,” and I believe this to be true.
From a big picture point of view, keeping the College of Engineering strong keeps your degree strong. Even though I have switched careers, my degree from the College of Engineering opens many doors for me to this day. Also, I believe the teaching and research that takes place in the college and across the university will truly change our lives for the better. When I review my options for giving, I believe this university has one of the best ROI’s out there. And, it allows me to say thanks to people like Professor Jeff Russell for all they did for me.
Scott Kinnamon, BSCEE ’93
Network administrator, University of Wisconsin Foundation
Why I Give
Richard Antoine and Dorothy O'Brien
Robert Cervenka and Debra Cervenka
Patrick Heaney and Kate Heaney
Gifts to the UW Foundation may be in the form of cash, appreciated securities, personal or real property. Pledges may be made over a period of years. Gifts to the UW Foundation are fully tax deductible.
For more information please contact:
Ann Leahy,
UW Foundation Director of Development - Engineering
1848 University Avenue
Madison, WI 53726
608/265-6114
ann.leahy@supportuw.org
To learn more about College of Engineering programs and involvement opportunities, please contact:
Brian S. Mattmiller,
Assistant Dean for Alumni and Corporate Relations
2630 Engineering Hall
1415 Engineering Drive
Madison, WI 53706-1691
608/890-3004
bsmattmi@engr.wisc.edu