Roger Williams University Receives $100,000 from FM Global for SECCM Labs Project

The gift will fund a Fluid Mechanics Lab, equipped with wind tunnels, pipe and valve flow testing model, hydraulic flume and more

By Public Affairs
A rendering of SECCM Labs.
A rendering of SECCM Labs.

BRISTOL, R.I. – Roger Williams University received a $100,000 donation from FM Global toward building one of the main laboratory spaces in SECCM Labs.

The donation from FM Global, one of the world’s largest commercial and industrial property insurers, will fund the construction of a Fluid Mechanics Lab in the School of Engineering, Computing, and Construction Management's (SECCM) state-of-the-art, three-story building under construction. Located in the heart of the Bristol campus, SECCM Labs will feature laboratories, project rooms and open spaces dedicated to hands-on learning

“Roger Williams University is proud to partner with FM Global because we share the conviction that the experiential learning that will occur in this lab is essential to the best kind of education for the next generation of employees at FM Global and companies like it,” said RWU Interim President Andrew A. Workman.

Currently, FM Global employs several dozen RWU graduates in various roles across the company.

“We know from our company’s own engineering training programs that learning is enhanced when students are able to see and do, rather than just read information in a book,” said Brion Callori, FM Global senior vice president of engineering and research. “We are pleased to support development of this lab, which will give RWU students an invaluable experience while helping to meet the needs of FM Global’s growing workforce.”

The nearly 2,000-square-foot FM Global Fluid Mechanics Lab will accommodate 30 students per session and will be equipped with wind tunnels, a pipe and valve flow testing model, hydraulic flume and hydraulic benches with multiple accessories, as well as the latest audiovisual technology.

“The resources provided in the FM Global Fluid Mechanics Laboratory will significantly enhance RWU’s ability to deliver the first-class experiential education our students deserve and our employers expect,” said Robert A. Potter, Dean of the School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management.

FM Global will also collaborate with RWU’s School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management to investigate how the company may assist the university with developing a fire protection and loss prevention curriculum as part of its engineering program.