Photo by Rajah Bose
James McGivern came to Gonzaga University in 1939 as the first dean of the School of Engineering (now known as the School of Engineering and Applied Science). Engineering classes in those days were hidden away in a crowded room below the gymnasium in the Administration Building (now College Hall).
From his first day on campus, Dean McGivern began growing the School with the vision of building a real “home” for engineering on campus. Thanks to his dedication, that dream was realized in 1948, when Dillon Hall was completed to house the School. Dean McGivern retired in 1975.
Dr. James G. McGivern, Photo from Gonzaga Archives
His leadership and commitment to engineering education was evident as a teacher, as an administrator, and as a member of Gonzaga’s Board of Regents. He kept in close contact with Gonzaga and many former students and colleagues until his death in 1991.
The School of Engineering and Applied Science is eternally grateful to James McGivern. His legacy will live on forever at Gonzaga University through the Dr. James G. McGivern Endowed Scholarship fund, established by his family, students and friends in his honor in the year following his retirement. McGivern Scholarships are reserved for engineering students.
To date, 1,204 gifts totaling $371,156 have been donated to the scholarship fund, which continues to grow with new gifts coming in every year. So far, nearly 600 scholarships have been awarded to students totaling $1,065,565. The endowment’s fair market value as of the end of Gonzaga’s last fiscal year, which ended May 31st, was $1,157,236.
What a fitting tribute to and legacy for one of Gonzaga’s greatest academic and visionary leaders.
If you would like to learn more about how to support students studying a specific discipline, or start an endowed scholarship, please contact Pat Reese at 509-313-6134 or reese@gonzaga.edu. Also, to make a gift to the Dr. James G. McGivern Endowed Scholarship fund or any other scholarships visit www.gonzaga.edu/makeagift.
by Carol Bonino