Inspiring Innovation

Carnegie Mellon alumni, parents and friends recently gathered in Hong Kong, Taipei and Shanghai for a series of events to celebrate Inspire Innovation: The Campaign for Carnegie Mellon University.

The campaign has already raised more than $669.5 million toward the overall goal of $1 billion.

President Jared L. Cohon shared with them the latest news and updates about the university as well as opportunities to be involved in the campaign.

"Carnegie Mellon is a fountain of ideas and innovations, ideas that far surpass the financial resources that the university has to provide. That's why this campaign is so important," Cohon said.

"It allows us to provide the facilities, start-up money for new faculty, and support for students who need financial assistance. But, it is not just about raising money," Cohon explained. "It has been from the beginning, six years ago, about increasing alumni involvement and engagement — to be connected, to be involved, and to give back."

Events were hosted by William L. Meaney (TPR'86), CEO of The Zuellig Group; Paul P. Wang (MCS'67, '71), managing general partner of Pacific Venture Partners and chairman of the Taiwan Alumni Chapter; and the Beijing and Shanghai alumni chapters.

Cohon's trip to the Asia-Pacific region is part of an ongoing effort to connect with members of the Carnegie Mellon community around the world.

Since October 2008, the university has hosted campaign gatherings in the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City, Washington D.C., Singapore, Mumbai, Bangalore and New Delhi.

Upcoming events are being planned for Los Angeles and Boston.