James R. Von Ehr II and his wife, Gayla, have helped Spartan Engineers turn promise into possibility for 20 years.
A 1972 graduate of the Michigan State University College of Engineering Department of Computer Science and Engineering and a successful technology entrepreneur, the Von Ehrs established a $1 million endowed scholarship fund in 2006 to support “outstanding undergraduate students who come from humble backgrounds, as I did," he said.
Two decades later, the Von Ehr Scholarship continues to reflect his belief in hard work, opportunity, free enterprise and the power of engineering to improve lives.
The scholarship has supported 100 undergraduate students in the College of Engineering, helping them focus more fully on their studies, research and future careers. For Brooke Hirst, who graduated this spring from MSU with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and as a member of the MSU Honors College, that support was life changing.
“The Von Ehr Scholarship was a game changer for me,” Hirst said. “It allowed me to quit my second job and focus on my studies and research. It set me up for success at MSU. I am very grateful.”
Hirst plans to work at a lithium-ion battery startup and eventually pursue a doctorate, with goals of working at a national laboratory or building a startup of her own.
Qualified prospective students - those scoring in the 90th percentile and above on national placement exams and who have demonstrated financial need - are invited to apply for the scholarship.
Incoming first-year applicants are required to write a brief essay describing their understanding of how free markets, individual liberty, and rule of law help to promote creativity and technological benefits for society.
Masato Hosokawa, a sophomore studying electrical engineering, said the Von Ehr Scholarship has been a tremendous help.
“The Von Ehr support extends beyond the scholarship. Listening to the Von Ehrs and the other scholars at the annual dinner was very inspiring and has had a huge impact on how I view engineering.”
Hosokawa, who is a member of the Honors College, hopes to improve the electrification of transportation.
Mikel Good, a senior in mechanical engineering, added that he is grateful to be able to further his education.
“The value of an education is immeasurable, however the means of obtaining it comes with a price. I am thankful for the assistance that this scholarship offers, and for the opportunity it has given me.”
Von Ehr notes: “Gayla and I are amazed at how well this program has met our vision over the years. We have been fortunate to be able to come meet our scholars for a dinner event almost every year since the program started. The students never fail to impress us. It has been a great way to see the potential of the achievers of today’s youth.”
Engineering Dean John Papapolymerou said the Von Ehr’s generosity has created a lasting legacy for the college and its students.
“Jim and Gayla have helped sustain Spartan Engineering excellence for two decades,” Papapolymerou said. “Their vision and long-term dedication have opened doors for so many talented students, and we are beyond grateful for the inspiration and support they continue to extend.”
After graduating from MSU, Von Ehr earned a master’s degree in computer science at the University of Texas at Dallas and built a career focused on technology management, entrepreneurship and advanced technology development.
His work has encompassed nanotechnology, atomically precise manufacturing, carbon nanomaterials, and numerous software products and companies.
Von Ehr is the founder of Zyvex Labs and former chief executive of Zyvex Corporation, the world’s first molecular nanotechnology company, as well as several spinoffs. He is currently active as chairman of Teliatry, Inc., and AuxiliumMD, Inc., both involved in miniaturized wireless neural stimulators.
Among his many honors, Von Ehr received the Claude Erickson Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest alumni honor presented by the MSU College of Engineering; distinguished alumni awards from both MSU and the University of Texas at Dallas; Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year award; and TechAmerica’s “Texas Legend” award.
Written by Patricia Mroczek
MSU College of Engineering Media and Public Relations page