Microsoft Donates $10.8 Million in Software To Washington State Community and Technical Colleges
REDMOND, Wash., June 1, 1998 — Microsoft today announced a $10.8 million donation of software and technical assistance to Washington state’s 32 community and technical colleges. This grant is one of the largest donations of software by Microsoft in Washington state and follows an initial $10 million software grant to the colleges two years ago.
“Microsoft is working with community colleges in a number of ways to promote great training programs and other educational opportunities,”
said Gates, who in recent months has toured technical facilities at several community colleges across the country.
“Here in Washington state, we’re proud to continue providing local community and technical colleges with the latest Microsoft® software to keep their programs current.”
The grant will be administered by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC). Like the preceding grant, the $10.8 million in software will be used by students, faculty and staff at all 32 community and technical colleges, for instruction, data gathering and administrative purposes.
“Not only does this gift strengthen our two-year colleges through technology and applied expertise, it shows a commitment to maintaining that strength,”
said Earl Hale, director of the SBCTC.
“Microsoft’s donations also underscore the value of alliances between the community college system and progressive companies who have a significant stake in a high-quality education system.”
Gov. Gary Locke applauded the company for recognizing the value of the state’s public two-year colleges.
“Washington’s community and technical colleges provide top-notch educational and training opportunities for citizens all across our state. Microsoft’s generous technology grant will help continue the tradition of lifelong learning into the next century.”
The Washington community and technical college system includes five technical colleges and 27 community colleges across the state. More than 435,000 Washington citizens take at least one class per year for job training, basic skills or academic transfer to a four-year university.
Microsoft has several existing initiatives under way to support community colleges across the country, including the Working Connections program, cosponsored by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). Microsoft and AACC announced the first round of Working Connections grants in February 1998. The five-year program supports development and enhancement of innovative information technology training programs at community and technical colleges throughout the United States. Colleges participating in the Working Connections program also are dedicated to recruiting and training students from disadvantaged populations.
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