The University of West Florida has received a major grant from a local foundation. Dr. Brendan Kelly, the interim vice president for UWF Advancement, announced the one million dollar gift from the Bear Family Foundation of Pensacola.
The majority of the money, $700 thousand, will go to the school's engineering department. Dr. Mohamed Khabou, the incoming chair of the UWF Electrical and Computer Engineering Department said the money will give his department the opportunity to continue to produce highly qualified engineers into the marketplace- and perhaps expand the school's recruiting territory.
The remainder of the money will go towards a less traditional department: logistics. It will allow UWF to support an Endowed Professorship in Supply Chain Logistics.
UWF President Dr. Judy Bense praised the Bear Family for their support of the school and the specific programs chosen for the support. She is also hopeful that it spurs recruitment of students and faculty to the university as well as other donaos.
The Lewis Bear Company is a beverage distributor that has been operating in Pensacola since 1876.