In September, Dean Jim Oblinger hosted the signing ceremonies for the Manning/Blanchard Endowment for Undergraduate Education. Dr. Susan Manning Blanchard and Donald G. Blanchard of Silk Hope have established the fund to support educational activities in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering in the College. Susan Manning Blanchard is an associate professor in that department.

The endowment will support programs such as annual student awards, undergraduate student club activities and other activities that enhance the undergraduate educational experience.

Taking part in the ceremonies, along with the donors and the dean, were Dr. Ken Esbenshade, associate dean and director of the College’s academic programs; Dr. Jim Young, head of the Department of Biological and Agricultural engineering; and Terry Wood, vice chancellor for university advancement.