ECU Donates $250,000 For Engineering Classrooms

August 10, 2017

JOHNSON CITY – East Tennessee State University’s new engineering program will soon receive essential classroom technology equipment for its joint bachelor degree with Tennessee Technological University courtesy of a $250,000 contribution from Eastman Credit Union.

“This is a significant and generous gift by Eastman Credit Union. The gift represents a commitment to economic development in our region and makes a positive statement as the first major gift for ETSU’s new engineering program,” said Dr. Dennis Depew, dean of the ETSU College of Business and Technology

ECU announced it will fund the audio and video conferencing equipment for two synchronous classrooms in Wilson-Wallis Hall, which will allow ETSU and TTU to broadcast interactive classes for students at both campuses. The first floor renovations in Wilson-Wallis Hall, including the Eastman Credit Union Engineering Classrooms, are set to be complete fall 2018.

“We’re honored to support this program. We have a long standing relationship with ETSU that’s built on a common desire to help make our local economies as strong as possible. ECU is proud of that partnership,” said Olan O. Jones, CEO and president of ECU.

“In 1934, a group from Eastman Chemical Company started Eastman Credit Union with a desire of offering value-adding financial services to hardworking people. They wanted the best for the small community of workers that they served at the time. I imagine our founding fathers would be proud of such a worthy contribution,” said Jones.

The joint degree in general engineering offered by ETSU and TTU is the only one of its kind in Tennessee and one of only four such programs in the nation. The first official class will enroll this fall. Students may apply at either ETSU or TTU and will receive diplomas reflecting graduation from both schools.