Foundation News

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.

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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.