University Times

The Howard Heinz and Vera I. Heinz Endowments have pledged $12 million to Pitt to support programs in environmental studies, international studies and educational research.

Among the programs benefiting will be the University Center for International Studies (UCIS), the Learning Research and Development Center's Institute for Advanced Study in Education (IASE), and several environmental studies programs.

The gift — one of the largest foundation grants ever for Pitt — will help UCIS compete for international scholars and "extend and enrich the University-wide agenda in international studies," while advancing IASE's goal of becoming "the national intellectual center for people engaged in the practical work of improving the public schools of tomorrow," according to a Feb. 17 University announcement.

The endowment funds also will support Pitt's undergraduate environmental studies program and make possible the introduction of a green construction and manufacturing program in the School of Engineering and an environmental law program in the law school.

Chancellor Mark Nordenberg said: "This grant will enhance our ability to compete nationally for the best students and professors and to forge innovative links among the University's different schools, departments and divisions in order to help address some of society's most critical problems. Because of their long-term impact, endowment gifts such as this one represent investments in future generations." Nordenberg said he hoped the Heinz Endowments' "tremendous vote of confidence will inspire others in the community to consider supporting academic excellence and our University."