Durham University Gets $4.15M Boost for STEM Innovation and Sustainability
Durham University has received a substantial donation of US $4.15 million from Dr. Neil Hunt and his partner Julie Raymond. The funds will bolster various initiatives aimed at fostering innovation, sustainability, and diversity in STEM fields.
Dr. Hunt, a Durham alumnus and former Netflix Chief Product Officer, has shown a long-standing commitment to his alma mater. The new donation builds on the Hunt Programme established five years ago, which has already supported notable initiatives such as the Anne-Marie Imafidon (AMI) Women in Technology programme and scholarships in Computer Science.
The latest donation will benefit several projects. It will support Dr. Hunt's old college, Collingwood, and the Hunt-Raymond Innovation Programme, enhancing student entrepreneurship at Durham. Additionally, it will establish new PhD scholarships focused on sustainability, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Furthermore, the Futures in STEM initiative will receive support, enabling young people from low-income backgrounds to study Computer Science at Durham.
Science students will also gain practical experience through industry placements facilitated by the donation. Dr. Hunt, since leaving Netflix, has been actively involved in founding, funding, and advising start-up businesses with a strong social purpose, reflecting his commitment to fostering innovation with a positive impact.
The US $4.15 million donation from Dr. Neil Hunt and Julie Raymond will significantly bolster Durham University's STEM programmes. It will support students, foster innovation, and promote sustainability, ensuring the university remains at the forefront of technological advancement and social responsibility.
