In an envelope sent by post to some of its alumni, the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is asking for contributions to support its continual effort for innovation.
The letter starts on a positive note about the importance of the alumni’s diplomas and the memories they have of their studies. According to the message, signed by Jan Mengelers, chairman of TU/e Executive Board, “government financing is not enough for important projects in the fields of talent development, education, and research”. Donations from its alumni will help to boost innovation and resolve technological and social challenges.
The initiative is part of the University Fund Eindhoven. More information on this can be found here. On the website, there is a selection of projects that were made possible through donations, such as Blue Jay, the indoor drone. Mengelers and the Executive Board have set up the fund to make the university more independent from other sources of income.
In an interview in Cursor, the university’s paper, two years ago, the Board mentioned that TU/e “is far from the large donations that English universities such as Oxford and MIT have been receiving for decades.” However, if correctly approached, this can lead to significant contributions that can support innovations.
Cursor published an article last week about a PhD position made possible through a donation. However, in this case, the donor was not a university alumnus. Donations can take many forms. From a smaller once-off amount to yearly contributions or larger sponsorships.
Written by: Manolis
Edited by: Melinda Walraven
