Alan and Alicia Sirkin, esteemed philanthropists and longtime supporters of the University of Miami, have donated $1.25 million to the College of Engineering to name the Alan and Alicia Sirkin Chemical and Materials Characterization Facility. Their generosity has been instrumental in advancing the college's mission to provide cutting-edge research facilities and educational opportunities.
This state-of-the-art laboratory offers advanced instrumentation and expertise for analyzing the chemical composition and material properties of various substances. It serves as a resource for researchers and students, facilitating groundbreaking research and innovation in fields such as materials science, chemistry and engineering.
The Sirkins' dedication to the university is exemplified by Alan Sirkin's active involvement in the College of Engineering as an alumnus.
"From the moment I entered the University of Miami in 1962, the engineering program was enriched with numerous hands-on laboratory classes," said Sirkin, who graduated with a bachelor's in civil engineering. "From physics and chemistry to structural labs and computer programming with Fortran, my classmates and I truly enjoyed the opportunity to apply what we learned in the classroom to real-world experiments. These experiences were invaluable in shaping our understanding and passion for engineering."
He added: "It is my sincere hope that the Chemical and Materials Characterization Facility will provide current and future students with the same opportunity to explore and innovate, using advanced techniques such as X-rays to examine specimens from across all departments, as well as from the outside world. My wife and I are excited to see how this facility will usher in a new era for the College of Engineering, fostering growth, discovery and excellence for years to come."
Alan Sirkin serves as chair of both the Dean's Advisory Council and the Civil Engineering Industry Advisory Board, providing valuable guidance and support to the college's initiatives.
