Walsh University is embarking on an exciting new partnership, unparalleled in the region, that will create significant networking and research opportunities for Walsh faculty and students. On November 16, during Founders’ Week, Walsh University will welcome visitors from area high schools as well as our local and international scientific community for a day celebrating the sciences with Walsh’s global partner Shimadzu Scientific Instruments (SSI). A highlight of the day will be the dedication and blessing of Walsh’s new Center for Analytical Excellence Laboratory, a collaborative project that includes the installation of nearly $1.2 million worth of new analytical equipment on campus. As part of Founder’s Week, the dedication will celebrate enhancing the quality of life through the advancement of science.
“Shimadzu’s generous donation will help position Walsh as a university that rivals the capabilities found at large research institutions – but with the benefits of the personal touch of a teaching campus,” said Walsh University President Tim Collins.
Walsh University received contributions for the lab from several benefactors in the region including a grant from Shimadzu of more than $550,000 toward the state-of-the art instrumentation. Business Community Partner and friend of the University, Ken Thompson, owner of Midwest Process Controls Inc., also contributed to the lab by substantially discounting the stainless-steel piping and labor for installation.
“I’m honored to be a part of creating this lab,” said Thompson. “I have decades of experience in this, and nobody has anything as hi-tech as what Walsh has built. It will be a big draw to top students interested in the sciences, and it will attract businesses that need sophisticated equipment. I think this is an opportunity for Walsh to produce some highly skilled scientific entrepreneurs.”
The Celebrating the Sciences event will feature interactive science activities, a business luncheon, distinguished keynote speakers, science poster presentation, a reverse career fair, and the Leonardo Da Vinci program in the Birke Center followed by a reception for alumni to reconnect with students and their former professors.
Students, faculty and staff from all majors are encouraged to participate. Contact Dr. Dan Passerini for details.