Carnegie Mellon University
October 17, 2013

Press Release: Carnegie Mellon Receives $1 Million for Mathematics Scholarship from Benter Foundation

Contact: Jocelyn Duffy / 412-268-9982 / jhduffy@andrew.cmu.edu

PITTSBURGH—Carnegie Mellon University has received $1 million from The Benter Foundation to establish an endowed undergraduate scholarship for students majoring in mathematical sciences. The Benter Foundation Mathematics Scholarship recognizes Carnegie Mellon's leadership in applied mathematics and honors former Carnegie Mellon President Jared L. Cohon.

"I'm delighted to endow an undergraduate scholarship in mathematics at Carnegie Mellon. Supporting talented students is critical today if we are to grow innovative leaders in basic research, computer science, business and other fields that rely on quantitative skills," said Bill Benter, president of The Benter Foundation Board of Directors. "Throughout his tenure at Carnegie Mellon, Jared Cohon vigorously supported the idea of creating access to higher education and the quantitative skills needed to innovate. We are pleased to continue this legacy though this scholarship."

"Mr. Benter's generosity addresses a major priority of Carnegie Mellon to increase the number of scholarships for students, and I am pleased that Mathematical Sciences has received this wonderful endowment," said Carnegie Mellon President Subra Suresh.

The Department of Mathematical Sciences, which is part of the university's Mellon College of Science, is well known for its expertise in applied analysis, combinatorics, logic and mathematical finance. The number of students majoring in mathematical sciences at Carnegie Mellon has increased dramatically in the past 10 years, with the department attracting some of the brightest undergraduate mathematicians in the country.

"We are extremely grateful to The Benter Foundation for creating this scholarship. Our department strives to translate our cutting-edge expertise in applied mathematics into a curriculum that prepares students for careers both in academia and the wide range of industries where mathematical training can be brought to bear. We have attracted many talented students to our program and we expect The Benter Foundation Scholarship to make Carnegie Mellon an even more appealing destination for exceptionally talented students," said Tom Bohman, the Alexander M. Knaster Professor and Head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences.

Founded in 2007, The Benter Foundation supports the leaders, organizations and ideas that help communities and individuals thrive. The foundation invests primarily in Pittsburgh-based organizations that enhance the quality of life in the region and support opportunities to help individuals reach their fullest potential.
     

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