State Farm donation makes advanced computer lab possible

CSUB's Beverly Byl with Kevin Stockton of State Farm

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. This time, CSUB's good neighbors gave a $250,000 gift commitment for an advanced computer lab. Kevin Stockton, State Farm vice president of operations, made the donation official with the presentation of a check during a special event.

State Farm purchased 33 high-level Sun Microsystems workstations allowing for upper division classes in networking, operational systems, artificial intelligence and graphics. The lab, opening this fall, is located in the university's new science building.

The new lab will enable the university to expand computer science offerings, including new electives. One such course, Advanced Operating Systems, will expose students to upgraded learning tools that are closely aligned to systems used by industry leaders.

“We'll be tracking the impact of the new courses and expect to see our students improving in the areas of architecture, operating systems and networks,” said Jim Moloney, computer science professor. “The resources the advanced lab offers will give our students a boost educationally and professionally.”

State Farm Insurance is a long-time good neighbor of CSUB, with previous gifts to support teaching and development programs.

“Business and education are natural partners,” Stockton added. “An educated work force is the foundation of a growing economy and essential to the prosperity of businesses and our community. We are proud to be partners with CSUB.”