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Xcel Energy donates $5,000 for engineering scholarships

Xcel Energy has given Minnesota State Mankato's College of Science, Engineering and Technology $5,000 for scholarships.

2006-07-05
By Robb Murray, Free Press Staff Writer [published in The Free Press, Mankato, MN, 7/4/2006]

MANKATO — Minnesota State University's College of Science, Engineering and Technology has been given  $5,000 for scholarships by the Xcel Energy Corp.

The donation was presented last week by Xcel Community and Government Relations Manager — and North Mankato City Council member — Dave Pearson. And it was not the first time Xcel has given to MSU. Over the years, Xcel has contributed more than $111,000 to Minnesota State Mankato.

"They really are looking to support the engineering programs," MSU spokesman Michael Cooper said. "They obviously need electrical engineers, but they need other engineers as well."

The College of Science, Engineering and Technology has about 3,000 students. Of those, between 110 and 120 receive scholarships. Xcel's gift, Cooper said, will mean scholarships for five more students.

Pearson presented a check to MSU Vice President for Advancement David Williams and science and engineering college dean John Frey on Thursday. Frey said the University and the college appreciates Xcel's gift and continued support.

"The curriculum for engineering students is challenging," Frey said in a written statement. "Xcel's gift means that our students can spend more time studying rather than having to work to earn money for tuition. We value this gift highly, as we do our long partnership with Xcel."

Added Pearson, "It's great to continue our partnership in higher education, especially with Minnesota State Mankato. The university is the greatest resource in Mankato."

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