UNCG Alumni Establish Research Fund
Christopher and Laura Tew, graduates of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) from the Class of 1969, have dedicated themselves to supporting their alma mater since their time as students. The couple recently established the Laura Braxton Tew and Christopher C. Tew Ignite Transdisciplinary Research Spending Fund within UNCG’s College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). This fund aims to enhance research collaboration across various disciplines and to foster new academic partnerships.
The Ignite Fund is designed to support collaborative teams that will innovate new scientific methodologies to address cultural, scientific, and societal issues. Christopher and Laura Tew were inspired to create the fund after reflecting on how they could contribute to the College of Arts and Sciences. “This wonderful idea was shared with us as we were considering how we could support the College of Arts and Sciences,” Laura Tew stated. “The transdisciplinary research fund allows faculty and student researchers to knit together ideas with opportunities using resources from areas outside the expertise of individuals, epitomizing the Minerva ideal of UNCG’s enduring symbol.”
Strengthening Community and Collaboration
The Tews emphasized that their initiative underscores the importance of UNCG’s College of Arts and Sciences and its impact on students. “We are both beneficiaries of different departments in the college,” Christopher Tew remarked. He noted that alumni from their graduating class have shared their fond memories and the influence their professors had on their academic journeys. The couple believes the Ignite Research Fund will enable collaboration with other colleges and schools at UNCG, reinforcing the sense of community among graduates.
Furthermore, they anticipate that this fund will invigorate research projects at UNCG, ultimately benefiting North Carolina and its wider communities. “For both of us, helping UNCG in its aspirations toward R1 designation is important,” Laura Tew explained. “While our gift is small compared to the massive needs for research funding, we hope to inspire others to contribute to the efforts toward reaching higher goals of scholarship and recognition.”
Vision for Sustained Impact
The Tews expressed their commitment to providing sustained support through their recurring gift, aiming for at least a decade of assistance. “We want to see that supportive network grow and include others,” Christopher Tew added. Dean Kelly Joyce of the College of Arts and Sciences views the Tews’ contribution as a significant motivator for future research. “This will spur new, transdisciplinary research that will both answer important questions and provide the data and research networks needed for faculty to apply for large-scale funding,” Dean Joyce remarked, emphasizing the importance of such support for UNCG’s research mission.
Reflecting on their time at UNCG, Laura Tew noted the impressive legacy of alumni support over the years. “It is awe-inspiring to realize the level of alumni support over the generations. How could we not be a part of that culture and tradition?” Christopher Tew echoed her sentiments, recalling the financial challenges he and Laura faced as students. He mentioned the support Laura received from Dr. Walter Puterbaugh’s chemistry department, which enabled her to work as a lab assistant and join a funded research team. “Now we know” where that financial support originated, he concluded.
Source: UNC Greensboro
