As part of their continued support of the future of science education, Vernier Software & Technology founders Dave and Christine Vernier recently pledged $4.5 million to Portland State University (PSU). This latest philanthropic pledge to the university will be used to help renovate a key campus facility for undergraduate students in STEM fields.
“We are thrilled that our contribution to new PSU classrooms and research spaces will improve the teaching and learning experience for instructors and students alike, and it will help give students from every background a great opportunity to learn science,” said Dave Vernier. “This is something very important to us personally, as well as to our company as a whole.”
The renovated facility, which will be renamed the Vernier Science Center, will include flexible classrooms, state-of-the-art labs, and collaborative research and teaching spaces for multidisciplinary and interactive learning. The facility will also co-locate PSU’s numerous programs supporting first-generation and historically underrepresented minority students in STEM and health-related fields.
“We believe that PSU, through its mission to serve diverse students and its many important connections to our city, will shape Oregon’s future,” said Christine Vernier. “We are committed to supporting science education and the next generation of science professionals in our state and beyond.”
Throughout their two-decade relationship with PSU, Dave and Christine Vernier have made a lifetime philanthropic contribution of more than $10 million, established the university’s largest outright endowed scholarship for first-generation STEM and social work students, and provided capital support for the College of Education’s STEM classroom. Christine Vernier has been a member of the university’s appointed Board of Trustees since its inception in 2014, and Dave Vernier has strongly advocated for PSU in the business and educational communities.
“The Verniers’ exciting gift is the latest expression of an extraordinary partnership,” said Stephen Percy, interim president of PSU. “As donors, board leaders, and community advocates, Christine and Dave have long demonstrated a profound commitment to PSU students, to science education, and to a thriving and equitable Oregon. We cannot thank them enough for their friendship.”
“We are committed to building campus spaces that contribute positively to students’ experience and success,” added PSU Provost Susan Jeffords, leader of a university-wide effort to improve outcomes for every PSU student. “Exceptional facilities make an enormous difference to learning and belonging. We are so thankful to the Verniers for helping to make such important work possible.”
To learn more about Dave and Christine Vernier and their commitment to science education, visit https://www.vernier.com/about-us/.
About Vernier Software & Technology
Vernier Software & Technology has led the innovation of educational, scientific data-collection technology for 39 years. Vernier was founded by a former physics teacher and employs educators at all levels of the organization. The company is committed to teachers and to developing creative ways to teach and learn science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) using hands-on science. Vernier creates easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, sensors, and graphing/analysis software. With worldwide distribution to over 140 countries, Vernier data loggers are used by educators and students from elementary school to university. Vernier technology-based solutions enhance STEM education, increase learning, build students' critical thinking skills, and support the science and engineering practices detailed in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). The Vernier business culture is grounded in Earth-friendly policies and practices, and the company provides a family-friendly workplace. For more information, visit http://www.vernier.com.
