The Louisiana Tech Engineering Foundation was founded in 1958 by a group of Engineering graduates who felt a means was needed for alumni to maintain contact with and demonstrate continued interest in the College. The name was changed in 1997 to the Engineering and Science Foundation to reflect the merger of Chemistry, Engineering, Mathematics, and Physics. The original sixty-six incorporators and founders are commemorated by a plaque dedicated May 8, 1999 in front of Bogard Hall.
The objective and purpose of the Foundation includes:
- Support the activities and programs of the College
- Serve as an Advisory Committee to the Dean
- Secure funds to meet the College's needs
- Coordinate efforts with the University Foundation
Supporters of the Foundation include the incorporators, all alumni and former students of the College, any persons, firms, and corporations approved by the Board and any person who makes a contribution to the Corporation.
The Board of Directors and the Executive Committee manage the Foundation. Directors serve a rotating three-year term, with seven new Board members being elected each year. Directors and officers are elected from Foundation membership. The leaders of the program advisory boards were added to the Foundation's board in 2005. Current officers and board members may be found in the 'Management Section'.
State funding for the college is insufficient. The Foundation provides much needed funds in several areas, such as scholarships and endowed Professorships and Chairs.
The Foundation presents recognition awards each year to individuals or groups that have made a significant contribution to the college over the past year. There's an 'internal' recognition for faculty, staff or students, and an 'external' one for alumni or friends.
