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The College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (CEPS) empowers creative thinkers, innovative problem solvers and leaders to make a difference. With world-class programs and faculty mentors, students actively engage in rigorous academics and hands on learning and research opportunities to have an impact in their profession, their community and the world. None of this would be possible without the support and generosity of loyal donors, like you.
Generous donors have established area challenges for departments across the college. With so many great options to give back to your favorite department, program, student group, or college initiative, you can have an impact wherever means most to you!
Our flagship fund, The CEPS TECH Fund allows us to adapt to the evolving needs of our students college-wide through collaborative learning, community building, and innovative programs.
Also new this year, you can support the Innovation Scholars program directly. Last year this growing initiative saw a huge increase in demand. Help provide as many first year CEPS students as possible gain valuable hands-on research experience.
Wherever you choose to give back during The (603) Challenge, thank you!
Generous underwriters have pledged more than $150,000 in matching and challenge funds across CEPS during this (603) Challenge!

Donors & Leaderboards
View All Donors| Area Challenge Name | Donors | Raised ($) | Goal (Donors) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earth Sciences $15,000 | 22 | $17,249 | 20 |
| Mechanical Engineering $10,000 | 53 | $15,716 | 50 |
| Chemistry $28,000 | 59 | $37,175 | 50 |
| Computer Science $5,000 | 36 | $7,230 | 30 |
| Civil and Environmental Engineering $8,000 | 57 | $17,312 | 50 |
| Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering $5,000 | 31 | $14,596 | 25 |
| Electrical and Computer Engineering $10,000 | 43 | $12,872 | 40 |
| Mathematics and Statistics $2,500 | 32 | $5,217 | 30 |
| CEPS Tech Camp $1,500 | 17 | $2,487 | 15 |
| Society of Women Engineers $5,000 | 75 | $6,806 | 70 |
| Physics and Astronomy $7,000 | 30 | $8,822 | 20 |
| Department/Program | Donors | Raised ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Computer Engineering | 43 | $12,872 |
| Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering | 31 | $14,596 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 53 | $15,716 |
| Physics and Astronomy | 30 | $8,822 |
| John Olson Advanced Manufacturing Center | 15 | $2,909 |
| Mathematics and Statistics | 32 | $5,217 |
| Civil and Environmental Engineering | 57 | $17,312 |
| Computer Science | 36 | $7,230 |
| Earth Sciences | 22 | $17,249 |
| CEPS Tech Camp | 17 | $2,487 |
| Chemistry | 59 | $37,175 |











“The summer of 2023 was an experience that changed my life… None of this would have been possible if I did not receive the CEPS FUEL Fund award.” — Nick Olibrice, Mechanical Engineering Alumnus.
Because of support from the CEPS FUEL Fund, Nick was able to relocate to Houston for a Patti Grace Smith Fellowship at NASA Johnson Space Center—gaining hands-on experience in human spaceflight programs, working alongside engineers and astronauts, and discovering a true sense of purpose.
After graduation, Nick returned to his internship site in Houston, where he is working as an Aerospace Engineer —and that journey began with access and opportunity.
On the final day of the (603) Challenge, please consider supporting the CEPS Career Team, with the FUEL Fund in mind. Your gift helps remove barriers and supports life‑changing experiences for our students.
153 days ago by Aaron Bencks

The Dinah Whipple STEAM Academy has been a transformative experience for my son. He always feels seen and heard when he’s at camp and enjoys connecting with other students who share his interests. Each year, he eagerly anticipates camp and always leaves feeling energized, confident and inspired.” Joyce P., parent of a Tech Camp student
Your support during the (603) Challenge helps make the Dinah Whipple STEAM Academy and all other Tech Camp summer programs possible. A generous underwriter has committed an additional $1,500 to Tech Camp if we reach 15 donors during the challenge, so every gift brings us closer to unlocking that support.
Give today to expand access to hands-on STEM learning for every curious mind. Click here to make a gift!
153 days ago by Aaron Bencks
The (603) Challenge is officially underway – and we’re kicking off voting in our annual ‘Dogs of CEPS’ competition. We’ve picked dog mascots across the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (CEPS) and your gift to your favorite area (or dog) is your vote for #1. This year, the dog that gets the most votes on any one day of The Challenge will be declared the winner, so your vote matters now more than ever!
The winning area will fetch $1,500 in additional funding from Julie Palais ’78, polar glaciologist, and author of Sathi: The Street Dog from Kathmandu, Nepal.
Keep an eye on your email for a little info about your department's dog (and special area challenge!) and cast your vote/gift now to take advantage of $200,000 of matching funds, matching up to $200 per donor until funds run out. Let’s do this CEPS!
156 days ago by Aaron Bencks
