CSC News
Network Appliance Support Tops $350,000
Network Appliance, a world leader in unified storage solutions headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA, has renewed its commitment as a Super ePartner with a $25,000 unrestricted cash gift. As their presence in the RTP area has grown, so too has their relationship with the department. Since becoming a founding Super ePartner with the department in 2001, NetApp has provided equipment and cash donations to the department valued at over $350,000.
In addition to sponsoring and benefiting from numerous Senior Design Center student projects, NetApp has arranged for students in the Engineering Entrepreneurs Program to visit their corporate headquarters, they have provided guest speakers for department events, and they have sponsored several high-profile events in the life of the department, including the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the EBII facility on Centennial Campus. NetApp will also serve as one of the premier sponsors of EBII's Dedication Ceremony in April 2006.
According to local executive, Ken Hibbard, NC State is one of NetApp’s top sources for new grad talent, and should continue to be so as their local operation continues to grow. Hibbard comments, “NC State’s computer science program produces well-grounded and productive talent who are quick to make real contributions”. Hibbard, himself, maintains a very active role in the partnership, serving as a member of the department’s Strategic Advisory Board, providing feedback and guidance on new curriculum strategies, and frequently speaking to student organizations and classes.
While NetApp's total contributions now exceed $350,000, Ken Tate, Director of Development & External Relations for the department of computer science, says the value of the partnership goes far beyond the financial commitment. "Having strong and dynamic partnerships with the global business community, such as we have with Network Appliance, are one of the cornerstones of our success as a department", says Tate. "Without question, the tangible support we have received from NetApp in terms of funding and equipment has benefited our students and our faculty. But equally important are the relationships that have emerged between NetApp's leadership team and our faculty, the sharing of ideas that have positively impacted our programs and curriculum, and the career opportunities that have emerged for our students."
The department extends its deepest gratitude to NetApp for its ongoing support and continued commitment to collaboration.
Return To News Homepage