SELLAND COLLEGE RECEIVES $5,000 SCHOLARSHIP GIFT FROM REFRIGERATION ASSN.

The Selland College of Applied Technology at Boise State University recently announced the establishment of the Robert Strasser Memorial Scholarship, which was created by the Treasure Valley Refrigeration Engineers and Technicians Association.

The $5,000 endowment will provide scholarships to incoming refrigeration, heating and air conditioning students in the Selland College each year, beginning this fall.

“The college is honored by the establishment of this endowed scholarship,” said Larry Barnhardt, dean of the college. “It is a great example of how an Idaho industry and the college can work together to benefit one another.”

According to the Selland College, the refrigeration, heating and air conditioning industry is currently facing a shortage of skilled technicians. Job opportunities for graduates are plentiful and expected to continue to increase in the future.

Committed to safety education in the refrigeration industry, Bob Strasser taught evening classes in the Selland College’s Center for Workforce Training. He also worked tirelessly in to help the association create many educational programs. During his term as President of RETA, the group hosted a national education conference in Boise. Proceeds from that event were used to establish this endowment scholarship on his behalf.

“Bob was a leader in our industry and a strong advocate for lifelong education. He was a very good teacher,” said Ryan Heggeler, spokesman for the group. “We are honored to provide scholarships in his name to support future students pursing a career in the refrigeration field.”

Peggy Strasser expressed her appreciation of the gift from RETA in a recent interview. “ I am so deeply touched by the scholarship donation. To honor my husband in this way means all of his efforts and concerns for safety and education of his fellow co-workers was truly appreciated and understood by all who knew him.

The donation will enhance the Boise State refrigeration, heating and air conditioning program currently offered in Nampa at the Canyon County Center. The program is currently accepting admission applications for fall 2001 enrollment. To learn more about the program contact the Selland College Student Services office at 426-1431 or visit the college website: selland.boisestate.edu.

Media Contact:
Bob Evancho
communications and marketing
426-1643