Glen Cove, NY  September 10, 2015 – On the heels of its 125th anniversary, Webb Institute is marking yet another impressive milestone, as it is publicly launching the most ambitious fundraising effort in the institution’s history. Through the Campaign for Webb: America’s Most Unique College, Webb aims to raise $40 million to enhance the college’s programs, infrastructure, and financial resources to meet the growing challenges of an expanding marine industry.  The financial goal represents a five-fold increase from the previous Campaign initiated in 2003.

“I’m incredibly proud and honored to serve as Webb’s President during this monumental effort,” said R. Keith Michel.  “Webb has a unique challenge, as the demand for our graduates exceeds supply; each year, 100% of our students receive meaningful job offers or pursue advanced degrees.  It is imperative that we respond to industry demand; build upon our facilities to provide students access to cutting-edge technology; and, sustain the financial model of providing each and every one of our students with a full-tuition scholarship.”

To lead the effort, Webb has engaged a Campaign Cabinet consisting of alumni, trustees, past parents, and friends.  Chaired by Joseph Cuneo ‘57, this group consists of the following members:  John Couch (honorary alumnus), Alison Granger (parent of alumnus), Roy Johnson ‘62, John Malone ‘71, R. Keith Michel ‘73, Jake Neuman ‘93, Anthony Urbanelli ‘75; and honorary members Arthur Burr ‘54 and Harold Lenfest (honorary alumnus).

Through the dedicated efforts and extraordinary generosity of the Campaign Cabinet, five Cornerstone investments (Campaign contributions of $2.5 million or greater) have been secured, four of which are from members of the Campaign Cabinet.  The momentum generated by these individuals has propelled success in the early phase of the Campaign, generating $22.8 million of the $40 million goal.

“Making an investment in Webb is making an investment in the best, simply put – the best education, the most promising students, the opportunity to make the greatest industry impact,” said Joseph J. Cuneo.  “I’m honored to serve as the Campaign Chair and welcome the responsibility to help secure the future financial well-being of Webb.”

Of the $40 million Campaign goal, $28 million will be raised to strengthen the endowment and ensure intergenerational sustainability of the full-tuition scholarship model, and $12 million will be earmarked for facilities improvement, headlined by the establishment of the Faculty & Research Center and an expansion of the on-campus residence halls.

“Webb Institute’s goal is to attract top students who display a passion and an aptitude for engineering.  Because of a carefully crafted blend of theoretical study and practical application, Webb alumni are recognized by the industry as being exceptionally well prepared to make immediate and lasting contributions.  While 80% of Webb alumni serve the marine community, Webb makes an impact across industries as CEOs of companies and entrepreneurs in high-tech start-ups; as leaders in law, finance, higher education, retail and manufacturing–each building on the solid foundation of the Webb engineering education,” said President Michel.  “Our success in the Campaign for Webb will ensure that future alumni are well equipped to make their mark on various industries.”

Campaign regional kick-off events will be held throughout next year, enabling Webb alumni, friends, and family to learn first-hand of the Campaign’s priorities, and provide an opportunity for live Q&A sessions with Campaign leadership and members of Webb’s administration.

About Webb Institute

Founded in 1889 by William H. Webb, Webb Institute is a top-ranked undergraduate college specializing in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. Webb provides full-tuition scholarships to all admitted students; admission to Webb is extremely competitive with a maximum of 28 students being accepted into the program each year. Webb Institute prides itself on a 100% placement rate for graduates who are highly sought after by all segments of the marine industry. Webb Institute is located on a beautiful, waterfront campus in Glen Cove, NY, on the North Shore of Long Island.  For more information, visit www.webb.edu.

General Contacts:

Keith Michel
President, Webb Institute
516-671-2277, ude.bbew@lehcimk

Anthony R. Zic
Director of Development, Webb Institute
516-403-5375, ude.bbew@ciza

Media Contact:

Kerri Allegretta
Director of Media Relations and Communications, Webb Institute
516-403-5392, ude.bbew@attergellak