Foundation News

  The Wright State University Foundation (WSUF) supports the university’s mission through fundraising, donor stewardship, and scholarship funding. It plays a vital role in advancing student success, academic excellence, and campus development by managing private contributions that directly benefit Wright State and its community.

Beyond its core work, the Foundation also leads strategic innovation initiatives that expand its impact across the Dayton region and beyond.

At the center of the Foundation’s innovation strategy is the Emergence Center, a cutting-edge hub in Beavercreek, Ohio, built for entrepreneurs, researchers, and technology leaders. The center is anchored by Studio 5G—a 5,000-square-foot lab developed in partnership with altafiberand Nokia—which offers secure, private 4G and 5G networks for real-world testing and deployment.

 Alongside its high-speed infrastructure and flexible meeting spaces, the Emergence Center fosters breakthrough work in areas such as AI, telemedicine, immersive tech (AR/VR), and IoT. It also serves as home to several innovative companies, including Seer Consulting, Mintovate Technologies, and Proxim AI.

Complementing the Emergence Center and Studio 5G, the Foundation also developed University Connect—an online platform that supports the entire higher education ecosystem by linking businesses and organizations to the resources of colleges and universities worldwide. Designed to enhance accessibility and visibility, the platform helps local, regional, and global partners discover and engage with academic expertise, research capabilities, facilities, and talent pipelines. By making higher education’s assets easier to access and apply, University Connect fosters stronger collaboration between industry and academia.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

30 May 2025

Wright State University Foundation Awards 2025 Students First Fund Grants

DAYTON, OHIO – May 14, 2025 – The Wright State University Foundation has announced the recipients of the 2025 Students First Fund grants—an initiative designed to support student-centered projects that enhance engagement and academic success across the university.

Because funding from the Foundation for the Students First Fund was increased from $50-$75,000 for the 2025 granting process, 11 dynamic projects were awarded funding across both Dayton and Lake Campuses, tackling themes ranging from wellness and professional development to inclusive leadership and campus spirit.

Doug Hull, incoming Chair of the Foundation’s Grants Committee, echoed the enthusiasm: “The breadth of ideas this year—from healthcare to leadership development to supporting academic success—the Student First Fund applications truly demonstrate that Wright State is thinking boldly about their future and their students’ success.”

Here’s a snapshot of the funded projects:

1. Medical and Surgical Exploration

A mentorship-driven experience to expose pre-health students to real-world clinical and surgical environments, encouraging hands-on learning and stronger faculty-student collaboration.

2. Preservice Teacher Expo

A professional development event that connects education majors with experienced teachers and mentors through workshops and panels, boosting career readiness in teacher education.

3. Established Leader Retreat: Re-Imagine

A refreshed version of the successful leadership retreat, focusing on team-building, strategic leadership, and training for campus leaders and student organizations.

4. Supplies for Success

Provides critical classroom supplies and learning kits to students facing financial challenges, supporting academic preparedness.

5. E Pluribus Pre-Health

Designed to empower international pre-health students, this initiative offers culturally responsive mentoring, advising resources, and faculty workshops to enhance student success.

6. Lake Campus Student Involvement Grant

Supports a wide range of events and student-led initiatives at the Lake Campus to increase campus engagement and co-curricular enrichment.

7. Health & Wellness Task Force Campaigns

A peer-led health initiative raising awareness about physical and mental health through targeted campaigns, outreach activities, and campus-wide wellness resources.

8. Rowdy Raider Student Section

This spirited effort builds a more vibrant student presence at athletic events, fostering school pride through giveaways, marketing, and organized cheering sections.

9. First-Gen Leaders Organization & Lounge

Provides leadership training, community-building activities, and a new physical space for first-generation students to network, study, and access support.

10. Collaborative Classroom Magic

A classroom transformation project that brings flexible, creative learning environments to life—encouraging collaboration, engagement, and innovation in teaching.

11. Care it Forward

A peer mentorship program that connects experienced students with those facing academic or personal hurdles, creating a strong network of care and accountability.

“Each year, we’re inspired by the creativity and commitment our students, faculty and staff bring to the table,” said Scott Rash, President and CEO of the Wright State University Foundation. “The Foundation is proud to support initiatives that align with university priorities, and we work closely with campus partners to ensure these projects can create lasting, meaningful impact at both our Dayton and Lake campuses.”

For more details on the Students First Fund and how to apply, visit https://wrightstatefoundation.org/students-first-fund.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
24 April 2025

Electro Rent and Wright State University Foundation Agree to Accelerate Innovation in Private 4G and 5G Wireless Solutions

Dayton, OH - Electro Rent, the global leader in test and measurement equipment rental solutions and services, has formalized an agreement with the Wright State University Foundation’s Emergence Center to accelerate innovation in private wireless technologies.

Through this collaboration, Electro Rent will supply cutting-edge test equipment—through flexible rental and purchase options—to Studio 5G, the Emergence Center’s advanced private wireless lab. Studio 5G was developed in partnership with altafiber and Nokia, featuring Nokia’s Digital Automation Cloud (DAC) private wireless solution.

Located across from the Wright State University campus, the Emergence Center serves as a dynamic hub connecting academic research and industry, fostering an ecosystem of technological innovation and economic growth in the Dayton region.

The partnership enables Emergence Center users to conduct advanced testing of private wireless networks and devices across 4G and 5G environments. This further strengthens the Center’s capabilities by enabling startups, researchers, and industry leaders to access best-in-class tools for validating wireless solutions in real-world conditions.

“We are excited to partner with the Emergence Center,” said Mike Spooner, Area Sales Manager at Electro Rent. “By offering flexible acquisition options and access to leading test equipment and technologies, we enable companies to accelerate innovation in private wireless technology without the burden of significant upfront capital investment.”

According to Scott Rash, President and CEO of the Wright State University Foundation, “This agreement with Electro Rent strengthens our commitment to supporting technological innovation and economic growth in the Dayton region, providing businesses with the tools they need to thrive. By incorporating Electro Rent’s rental and sales offerings into Studio 5G, we are creating an unparalleled testing environment that benefits industry partners and the academic community.”

The Emergence Center and Studio 5G represent the Foundation’s broader vision to bridge the gap between academic research and market-driven innovation, supporting Wright State University’s strategic goals and contributing to the region’s technological advancement.

About Wright State University Foundation

The Wright State University Foundation is dedicated to advancing the mission and strategic priorities of Wright State University by fostering innovation, supporting research, and strengthening partnerships between the university and the broader community.

Contact:
R. Scott Rash, CFRE
President & CEO, Wright State University Foundation
scott.rash@wrightstatefoundation.org

About Electro Rent

Electro Rent is a global leader in test and technology solutions that enable customers to accelerate innovation and optimize investments. Electro Rent's rental, leasing, sales, and asset management solutions serve leading innovators in communications, aerospace and defense, automotive, energy, education, and general electronics and have been doing so since 1965.

FAIRBORN, OH – Grand Opening

Mintovate Technologies’ Tech Suite

Emergence Center, Wright State University Foundation

3070 Presidential Drive, Suite 360, Fairborn, OH

Thursday, May 22, 2025

1:00 PM – 5:00 PM (Open House)

Mintovate Technologies

Specializes in Resilience and Security

for the 16 Critical Infrastructure Sectors

At Our Open House, Explore Our Technology

Portfolio: 

Dayton Photonics

EMProve by Advanced

Fusion

AtmosphereH2O

STM (Swift Textile Metalizing)

Black Umbrella Security

Tardigrade Space Systems

GovCon Resilience

Playbook

Millennial Software

iSolved

Sejacn AI

BallistiBlast

Sustainable Exploration

Network with our team, including

CEO Brandy Foster & Senior Consultant Steve Jones

and discover how Mintovate Technologies is ensuring resilience in a

rapidly changing world

No RSVP required – just stop by!

For more information, contact brandy@mintovate.com.

Dayton, OH – April 1, 2025 – The Wright State University Foundation (WSUF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Bobby Jones as its new Chief Financial Officer effective April 7. Jones, a seasoned finance executive with over three decades of experience in nonprofit and corporate financial leadership, will oversee the Foundation’s financial operations, investment management, and compliance functions. He will replace current CFO Bob Batson, who will retire on April 30.

Jones brings a wealth of expertise in financial forecasting, risk management, and operational efficiency, having previously served as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Nova Behavioral Health, Inc., where he successfully increased revenue by 25% and optimized financial operations. His career spans leadership roles at Daybreak, Inc., PSA Airlines, and Butler County Community Health Centers, where he has consistently driven fiscal integrity and strategic financial planning.

As Chief Financial Officer, Jones will play a pivotal role in ensuring the Foundation’s financial independence, optimizing its fiscal health, and guiding its strategic growth. Reporting to Scott Rash, President and CEO of the Wright State University Foundation, Jones will be instrumental in managing the Foundation’s transition toward greater financial autonomy while maintaining transparency and compliance with nonprofit financial regulations.

“Bobby’s extensive experience in nonprofit financial management and strategic leadership makes him the ideal candidate to help strengthen the Foundation’s financial sustainability,” said Rash. “His track record in improving financial performance and optimizing operational efficiency aligns perfectly with our mission to support Wright State University and its students.”

Jones, a Wright State University alumnus, holds both an MBA in Finance and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Financefrom the institution. His return to serve in a leadership capacity at WSUF marks a full-circle moment in his career.

“I am honored to join the Wright State University Foundation and contribute to its mission of supporting students and educational excellence,” said Bobby Jones. “With the Foundation’s ongoing transition toward financial independence, I look forward to leveraging my experience to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen financial stewardship, and ensure long-term sustainability.”

The Wright State University Foundation continues to play a crucial role in advancing educational opportunities and supporting students through scholarships and strategic initiatives. With Jones at the financial helm, the Foundation is well-positioned to enhance its fiscal health and long-term impact.

For more information about the Wright State University Foundation, visit wrightstatefoundation.org.

About Wright State University Foundation

The Wright State University Foundation is dedicated to supporting the students, faculty, and programs of Wright State University by securing and managing private philanthropic resources. The Foundation’s mission is to enhance educational opportunities and student success through strategic financial stewardship and donor engagement.