#United States #Auburn #Samuel Ginn #Auburn Engineering #$25 million gift

Celebrating a Legacy of Excellence: Samuel Ginn and Auburn Engineering

On September 12, 2025, a significant milestone was honored at Auburn University with the 25th anniversary of the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering. This occasion was not just about commemorating a name, but about recognizing a transformational vision and investment that forever altered the trajectory of the engineering program at Auburn.

The evening gathered alumni, faculty, and administration at the picturesque Gavin Garden, a fitting backdrop for the event recognizing Samuel Ginn’s impactful $25 million donation in 2001. Ginn, a distinguished telecommunications pioneer and a proud graduate of Auburn in 1959, was celebrated for his commitment to elevating the college’s stature. His extraordinary gift initiated an era of unprecedented growth for Auburn Engineering, making it a powerhouse of innovation and learning.

During the event, Mario Eden, the current Dean of Engineering, emphasized the remarkable journey the college has undergone in the past 25 years. "Since 2001, the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering has experienced exponential growth across various metrics, including rankings, enrollment, research funding, and facilities," he proclaimed. This growth was attributed largely to Ginn’s visionary support, which encouraged a wave of donor contributions and a surge in student enrollment.

Larry Benefield, who served as dean from 2000 to 2012, reminisced about the challenges the college faced at the turn of the century and how Ginn’s monumental gift enabled them to overcome those hurdles. He noted, "Sam's support during that time wasn’t just financial; it became a cultural phenomenon that inspired other alumni to give back."

Chris Roberts, another former dean, reflected on the ripple effect of Ginn’s generosity, which spurred a shift in perception within the college community. He shared, "Sam’s gift was not just a donation; it instilled a sense of pride and belief in ourselves. It changed the narrative about Auburn Engineering." This momentum fostered the creation of an environment conducive to achieving academic and institutional excellence, further solidifying Auburn’s reputation as a leading engineering institution.

Adding to the excitement of the celebration was the announcement of an even more substantial investment from the Ginn Family Foundation. Earlier this year, they pledged $30 million towards engineering scholarships, the largest commitment of its kind in the university’s history. Dean Eden expressed enthusiasm for this ready investment, stating, “This remarkable gift will provide full scholarships, along with essential support services to ensure student success.”

As the evening progressed, Samuel Ginn took to the podium, met with enthusiastic applause. He humbly attributed the college’s current success to the hard work of the deans and staff, emphasizing, “It’s the teams behind the scenes who make the dreams a reality.” Ginn’s commitment over the years has not only enhanced the college’s facilities but has also created a legacy aimed at longevity and success for future generations.

The celebration concluded with a forward-looking message. Eden called on the university community to build upon the legacy established over the last 25 years, stating, “As we reflect on our past, it is crucial to envision our future. I am confident that the next decades will lead us to even greater heights among the finest engineering institutions in the nation.” The supportive community of Auburn Engineering, strengthened by Ginn’s phenomenal contributions, stands ready to embrace that future.

In an era where donor relations can often be transactional, Samuel Ginn’s journey showcases the profound impact of philanthropic vision guided by genuine care for the institution. His legacy will undoubtedly foster innovation, education, and excellence in engineering for many years to come.