We need your help building our new facility for...
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Computer Science
Energy Science and Technology
...to build the workforce of tomorrow and accelerate STEM education.
Your gift makes a huge impact for the students in these growing programs and we would love to see your name on the donor wall in the new building!
Driving the Future
Autonomous vehicles. Mobile apps. Smart grids. Machine learning. Smart buildings. Cyber security. Energy systems. Artificial intelligence. Western Washington University is expanding our ABET accredited electrical engineering and computer science programs to tackle the most pressing technological challenges of our time. Together with industry partners, we are building a dynamic and collaborative program for applied education and research in advanced technology engineering and computer science.
Preparing More Problem-Solvers
Western is committed to providing more graduates in high demand fields. Western’s focus on small classes, interdisciplinary approaches, hands-on learning, and student participation in faculty-led research is a strategic advantage when it comes to preparing the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers. Western is also committed to inclusive success. We understand that more people of all cultures, backgrounds, and experience need to come together to solve problems. Diversity of perspective is key to shaping a sustainable future.
Reducing Carbon
The internationally acclaimed sustainable design expert, Jason F. McLennan, is guiding the net-zero energy/zero carbon design strategy for the building. The building will be a "smart building", exceed LEED standards for energy use, carbon, and other environmental indicators, and will pursue certification through the International Living Future Institute. As the region’s only carbon neutral academic facility, and one of only a handful in the nation, Kaiser Borsari Hall will significantly advance Western’s vision to become the region’s first carbon neutral university campus. Learn more about the sustainable design for the building in this “Getting to Deep Green” interview with Jason McLennan.
Connecting Industry to Education
Western’s new advanced technology engineering and computer science building is a direct response to the needs of Washington state industries and employers. The building will be a place for collaboration and connection with spaces that foster innovation, investigation, and inspiration. Physically and culturally accessible, it will be a hub where industry experts, faculty, and students come together to co-create the technology and engineering solutions for today and tomorrow.
Funding the Building
The project budget for the facility is $73 million. The Washington State Legislature is providing $53 million and the Western Washington University Foundation’s “Building Washington’s Future” capital campaign aims to raise $20 million. The campaign was launched in the fall of 2019 with a $10 million lead gift from long-time donors Fred Kaiser and Grace Borsari who previously donated over $2 million to the Foundation for scholarships and university lab space. The new building will be named in their honor. The campaign has raised nearly $15 million and is currently pursuing gifts to achieve the carbon neutral design.
To learn more visit our website at: https://foundation.wwu.edu/building-washingtons-future
To make a pledge that you plan to pay later or in installments, please email your name, pledge amount and installment frequency to: giving@wwu.edu.
We will reply to let you know we’ve received your pledge and schedule pledge reminders accordingly.
For questions or to explore naming opportunities in the new building please reach out to Manca Valum, Senior Director of Advancement for Strategic Initiatives at (360) 650-6542 or email manca.valum@wwu.edu
