Cal Poly Receives CSU-Record $110M Gift from Alumnus William L. Frost

The Frosts' generosity will transform science and mathematics education at Cal Poly by greatly enhancing the resources for undergraduate research. A new interdisciplinary research center will contain almost 18,000 square feet of science and mathematics facilities. In addition, the Frosts' donation includes $3.6 million annually to support student scholarships and research stipends, cutting-edge equipment and instrumentation, and expanded hiring of instructors, giving faculty members more time to mentor undergraduate students in research.

"Bill and Linda's gift will impact the lives of countless Cal Poly students, right now and far into the future," said Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong. "The Frosts envision Cal Poly's College of Science and Mathematics housing one of the top undergraduate academic and research programs in the country. Their willingness to think big is an inspiration to all of us and a model for how Cal Poly will continue to provide the creative thinkers and problem-solvers for today's complex global workforce."

In developing a new vision for Cal Poly's undergraduate science and mathematics academic and research program, Bill Frost worked closely with his longtime friend, College of Science and Mathematics Dean Phil Bailey. While designing the program, they concentrated on how to create the most positive and lasting impact on students. By enhancing undergraduate research experiences, the program will enrich students' Cal Poly experience and make them top prospects for graduate schools and professional careers.

"I see this as an investment in the education and future successes of our science and mathematics students," said Bill Frost. "I want this funding to be used to further enhance the Learn by Doing experiences that define Cal Poly and to provide students with research opportunities that will result in their presenting at regional, national and even international professional conferences and co-authoring publications with their faculty mentors in peer-reviewed journals."

The Frosts are both CSU alumni. Bill Frost graduated from Cal Poly with a degree in biochemistry, and Linda Frost earned a degree in biology from San Jose State University.

The impact of the Frosts' gift will reach beyond Cal Poly's campus, said CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White.

"Bill and Linda's inspirational gift sets an example for other current and potential donors," White said. "It highlights the crucial role private support plays in helping to maintain and enhance California's public higher education system."

Bailey, who is retiring in June after nearly 50 years as a professor and administrator at Cal Poly, said, "This gift represents a genuine desire by the Frosts to provide Cal Poly students with research experiences that promote intellectual growth fueled by curiosity, critical and creative thinking and personal initiative. Working with Bill on this project has been a highlight of my career."

About Cal Poly
Founded in 1901 and part of the renowned California State University system since 1960, Cal Poly is a nationally ranked, four-year, comprehensive polytechnic public university located in San Luis Obispo, California. Known for its Learn by Doing approach, small class sizes and open access to expert faculty, Cal Poly is a distinctive learning community whose 21,000 academically motivated students enjoy an unrivaled hands-on educational experience that prepares them to lead successful personal and professional lives. For more information, visit www.calpoly.edu.

Note to editors: Additional high-resolution photos of Wednesday's event are available. Contact Media Relations Director Matt Lazier at 805-756-7109 or [email protected].

Contact: Matt Lazier
805-756-7109; [email protected]

SOURCE California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo

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