NEWS
TULSA, OKLA. – Google has gifted the University of Oklahoma Polytechnic Institute (OUPI) at OU-Tulsa $250,000 to purchase a high-powered computing system to train students and collaborate with the commercial sector. This marks the third consecutive year Google has presented OUPI with a gift to further OU’s progress toward establishing a model for applied technology education.
Google’s support will allow OUPI to serve as a workforce solution for Tulsa and northeastern Oklahoma and align OU’s educational and research capabilities with the needs and opportunities of the region’s growing and dynamic economy. OUPI currently offers a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. Applications opened for two additional bachelor’s degrees in applied artificial intelligence and software development and integration this month.
“We are committed to being a student-ready school that produces industry-ready graduates,” said Teri Reed, Ph.D., director of the OU Polytechnic Institute. “And this new gift from Google will allow us to take OUPI’s commercial sector connections in applied artificial intelligence to a new level. It will provide the perfect platform for our students to train, gain industry-driven experience and graduate ready to make an impact in roles that are highly sought after and vitally important in our community.”
“Our state continues to benefit from Google's investment in Oklahoma, both through its data center in Mayes County and its support of higher education, schools and nonprofits,” said U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin. “OU’s ability to purchase the latest AI technology with Google’s support ensures graduates are ready for today’s workplace technology environment.”
With a history of driving industry in Oklahoma, Google has created jobs for more than 800 Oklahomans and awarded more than $3 million in grants to Oklahoma nonprofits and schools to expand technology education. This gift is part of Google’s ongoing commitment to support economic development in Oklahoma, a commitment that the OU Polytechnic Institute shares.
“Google is proud once again to fund innovative educational programs with the OU Polytechnic Institute, which fosters collaboration and connection between students and industry leaders,” said Andrew Silvestri, Google’s head of external affairs in Oklahoma. “OUPI’s efforts in expanding student opportunities drive our future workforce and fuel economic growth. By equipping students with powerful computing tools, we’re helping them develop the skills needed to succeed in today’s high-tech world.”
“Google has demonstrated leadership in ensuring that northeastern Oklahoma can thrive as a hub for technological advancement. Google’s continued support of the OU Polytechnic Institute is an example of their dedication to the entire state,” said Susan Bynum, vice president of OU-Tulsa. “These funds from Google allow us to purchase the technology for OUPI graduates to truly stay on the cutting edge of industry innovation in applied artificial intelligence. It will also be instrumental in our efforts to recruit exemplary faculty and talented students. OU-Tulsa is extremely grateful to Google for this continued show of support.”
The OU Polytechnic Institute’s cutting-edge curriculum, developed with industry partners, focuses on applied knowledge, assisting the northeastern Oklahoma region in continued efforts to become a tech hub for growth and new jobs.
Partners for the OU Polytechnic Institute include Tulsa Innovation Labs, along with philanthropic partners such as the George Kaiser Family Foundation, Pamela S. and Terry L. Carter Scholarship Fund, Bank of Oklahoma and Williams.
About OU Polytechnic Institute
The University of Oklahoma Polytechnic Institute (OUPI) at OU-Tulsa is focused on high-demand, advanced and applied technology-based education. OUPI prepares graduates to transform industries in Oklahoma by offering innovative programs that meet growing demands in areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software development and integration and digital manufacturing. OUPI at OU-Tulsa will create a pipeline of extremely skilled graduates with experience in high-demand fields, leading to high-paying jobs that will retain talent in the state and attract new students.
About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. As the state’s flagship university, OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. OU was named the state’s highest-ranking university in U.S. News & World Report’s most recent Best Colleges list. For more information about the university, visit www.ou.edu.
About the OU Foundation
The University of Oklahoma Foundation is an independent charitable organization that facilitates and manages philanthropic gifts to support the University of Oklahoma. With a culture of integrity, skill and persistence, we align the passions of donors and our alumni with the indelible mission of the University of Oklahoma.
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