Golisano gives $10 million for new program at RIT
By: WROC-TV
Updated: September 12, 2007
A major gift for RIT announced Wednesday, thanks to local billionaire Tom Golisano.
RIT plans to launch The Golisano Institute for Sustainability, with a $10 million commitment from the Paychex founder.
The Institute plans to be "the" place for universities, corporations and governments to work together to find new life-cycle technology, specifically business that doesn't have a negative impact on the environment.
"The Golisano Institute for Sustainability is a natural extension for us," states RIT President Bill Destler. "It expands our initiatives in education, research and technology transfer that build upon some of RIT's strongest academic programs and the internationally respected research of the Center for Integrated Manufacturing Studies."
Golisano's donation will be used to fund development and new academic programs. The program will mean the world's first ever doctorate degree in sustainability with a focus on product development.
Funding for the construction of a "green" facility is also planned.
The Golisano Institute for Sustainability will be lead by Nabil Nasr, RIT assistant provost and director of the Center for Integrated Manufacturing Studies.
