A $1 million gift from University of Texas at Arlington alumnus Roger Krone and his wife, Helen, will accelerate hands on learning and applied research for students in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering's Space Systems Program.
The commitment will establish the Roger and Helen Krone Space Systems Endowment and will create and equip the Roger and Helen Krone Space Systems Laboratory.
"Helen and I are proud to give back in a way that reflects the education and opportunities UTA afforded me," said Krone ('81 MS, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering), a former space industry executive and current president and CEO of Scouting America. "Our goal is to help the next generation gain the experience and confidence they need to lead in the rapidly evolving space sector."
The Krone Space Systems Endowment will fund scholarships, undergraduate and graduate research, experiential learning, professional development, student competition teams, conference travel and other initiatives that expand access to and success in space systems education.
The Krone Space Systems Laboratory will offer a central hub for hands-on student discovery through the acquisition and use of lab equipment, technology and related infrastructure.
"This transformative investment from Roger and Helen Krone elevates UTA's leadership in space systems innovation," UTA President Jennifer Cowley said. "Their generosity embodies the kind of philanthropic vision that will shape our university's future and prepare our students for success in Texas' competitive space industry."
The Space Systems Program prepares students for graduate study and careers in space systems engineering. Areas of focus include orbital mechanics, spacecraft propulsion, spacecraft dynamics and control, spacecraft design, entrepreneurship and space exploration.
"The Krones' commitment will significantly enhance real-world learning experiences and position our graduates for success in today's space industry," said Peter Crouch, dean of the College of Engineering. "We are grateful for this partnership and the lasting impact it will have on students, research and external collaboration."
A UTA Distinguished Alumnus, Krone is president of the Krone Foundation, where Helen serves as secretary, treasurer and director. He has held senior roles across several major aerospace organizations, including serving as chairman and CEO of Leidos, and is a member of the UTA President's Campaign Leadership Council.
The Krones have previously supported the UTA College of Engineering through the Dean's Excellence Fund and have designated a portion of their estate to support activities related to the Space Systems Program.
About The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA)
The University of Texas at Arlington is a growing public research university in the heart of Dallas-Fort Worth. With a student body of over 42,700, UTA is the second-largest institution in the University of Texas System, offering more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Recognized as a Carnegie R-1 university, UTA stands among the nation's top 5% of institutions for research activity. UTA and its 300,000 alumni generate an annual economic impact of $28.8 billion for the state. The University has received the Innovation and Economic Prosperity designation from the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities and has earned recognition for its focus on student access and success, considered key drivers to economic growth and social progress for North Texas and beyond.
