Local M&S Community Donates to Support ODU Academic Programs
April 21, 2016
The April 14 meeting featured the presentation of this check by (left to right), Josh Jackson, a member of MSVE’s Industry Advisory Board; to Rick McKenzie, chair of the department of modeling, simulation and visualization engineering at ODU; and John Sokolowski, executive director of VMASC
Old Dominion University's impact on the local modeling and simulation industry is undeniable.
Beginning with a small investment in the emerging technology more than 20 years, the University has expanded its research profile in modeling and simulation, sending graduates to work in jobs nationwide in a range of fields. Its Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center (VMASC) in Suffolk produces groundbreaking work to support innovation in fields ranging from transportation to advanced manufacturing to health care.
When it created an undergraduate degree in modeling, simulation and visualization engineering in 2010, Old Dominion became the only university in the country to offer a complete advanced education in M&S.
The local modeling and simulation industry recognizes the University's efforts and the value of the skilled graduates emerging from Old Dominion.
The VMASC Industry Association announced a $50,000 endowment for Old Dominion's Department of Modeling, Simulation and Visualization Engineering (MSVE) at its annual board meeting April 14 at VMASC.
Josh Jackson of VMASC's advisory board, vice president for training and simulation at SAIC Inc., made the presentation to VMASC executive director John Sokolowski and Rick McKenzie, professor and chair of the MSVE department.
"The VMASC Industry Association members are very generous to provide us this opportunity," McKenzie said, adding that the endowment will support one MSVE master of science student. "We hope that this support is matched by our partners in the modeling and simulation community."
The annual board meeting also featured presentation of capstone senior design projects by Old Dominion MSVE students.