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February 3, 2000

PNC funds Katz technology center

M.B.A.s at Pitt soon will have a new team-oriented technology center courtesy of PNC Bank Foundation.

The Katz Graduate School of Business has received a $1.3 million cash and in-kind contribution from PNC to fund development of the PNC Team Technology Center and enhance the curriculum through involvement of PNC senior executives.

The grant, which is the foundation's largest single cash gift to date, will allow the project to begin in a new centralized, student facility on the first floor of Mervis Hall. Construction of the new center is expected to begin this spring.

Frederick Winter, dean of the business school, said, "This is the latest example of PNC's significant support of our mission to prepare students to be effective leaders in the business world once they complete their degree programs here at the Katz school."

Thomas H. O'Brien, chairman and CEO of PNC, said the Katz school's emphasis on management learning and the application of educational technologies are key reasons for PNC's involvement. "At PNC, technology is a primary driver of value for our customers and shareholders. The availability of skilled M.B.A. graduates who understand and utilize the latest information technology is a key to the growth of our businesses and other companies across the country," O'Brien said.

The PNC Team Technology Center will include:

* A centralized facility where students will have access to computers, communications equipment, software and audiovisual equipment.

* Team rooms equipped with the technological infrastructure to accommodate at least 10 students in each.

* A business information center where students will have access to all of the school's business databases, as well as traditional library materials.

* Individual study areas that will accommodate student research and class preparation in addition to the team-oriented projects.

Winter said: "Outside of the classroom, students will spend an average of 4-6 hours per day in the new center, working on group projects, completing course assignments, conducting research and engaging in independent study."

In addition, PNC executives will continue to share their expertise in the classroom as one of the school's "best practice partners" and will continue their involvement in Katz's Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence.


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