OREANDA-NEWS.  ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP) and Texas A&M University recently announced a USD 6 million contribution by ConocoPhillips to the university’s Dwight Look College of Engineering. The multi-year donation will support construction of the new Engineering Education Complex (EEC). During an event at the company’s Houston headquarters, ConocoPhillips Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ryan Lance presented the check to Dr. M. Katherine Banks, vice chancellor and dean of engineering at Texas A&M University.

“An educated workforce drives our global economic future, and we’re proud to continue to support some of the best and brightest minds through this donation,” said Lance. “Texas A&M consistently delivers top-tier graduates that continually make a substantial impact within our company and around the world.”

The EEC will be dedicated solely to undergraduate engineering education, and will be built adjacent to the existing Zachry Engineering Center, which will be renovated during the new construction project. When  completed, the two centers will feature 600,000 square feet of state-of-the-art learning space. An innovative learning environment, the complex will feature flexible classrooms, design and fabrication shared-use laboratories, collaborative space, tutoring services and will be the hub of undergraduate engineering. In recognition of the company’s support, the EEC lobby will be designated as the ConocoPhillips Atrium.

“We are appreciative of ConocoPhillips for its continued support of Texas A&M Engineering and for sharing our vision in this endeavor to provide a unique educational environment for our undergraduate students,” said Banks. “These new facilities will allow for hands-on, experiential learning and access to a wide range of multidisciplinary learning opportunities. This new approach to engineering education will produce technology leaders who are uniquely prepared to address tomorrow’s challenges.”

ConocoPhillips remains a committed supporter of the Look College and Texas A&M University, giving more than USD 25 million to the university during the past 49 years. By supporting education, charitable giving, volunteerism and civic leadership, the company helps build skills critical for the future. Through this and other educational contributions, ConocoPhillips aims to advance research in secondary and technical education; support diversity of the talent pool in math, science and engineering disciplines; and improve effectiveness of primary education.