CH2M HILL Alumni: A Legacy of Engineering and Partnership
The story of CH2M HILL is inextricably linked to Oregon State University (OSU), a testament to the power of education, collaboration, and a shared vision for building a better world. From its humble beginnings in the minds of three students and their professor to its rise as an international engineering powerhouse, CH2M HILL's legacy continues to resonate through its alumni and its enduring impact on OSU.
The Genesis of an Engineering Firm
The seeds of CH2M HILL were sown in the 1930s at Oregon State College, now Oregon State University. Three ambitious students - Holly Cornell, James Howland, and T.R. Hayes - alongside their civil engineering professor, Fred Merryfield, envisioned creating their own engineering company. This dream materialized in 1946, with the formation of an engineering consulting company initially known as CH2M, derived from the first initials of their last names (Cornell, Howland, Hayes & Merryfield).
The fledgling company, born from the academic environment of OSU, quickly established itself as a significant player in the engineering sector. This early success can be attributed to the strong foundation provided by their education and the mentorship of Professor Merryfield.
Expansion and Evolution: The Addition of "HILL"
CH2M experienced significant growth and evolution in its early decades. A pivotal moment in the company's history occurred in 1971 when it merged with Clair A. Hill and Associates, a firm founded by another OSU alumnus. This merger led to the addition of "HILL" to the company's name, solidifying its identity as CH2M HILL. The merger was a culmination of 15 years of collaboration between the two entities, demonstrating the power of partnerships and shared expertise in driving success.
Clair A. Hill and Associates brought additional expertise and resources to the table, further strengthening CH2M's capabilities and expanding its reach. This strategic move positioned the company for continued growth and success on a larger scale.
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A Mutually Beneficial Relationship with Oregon State University
For decades, CH2M HILL and OSU cultivated a close and mutually beneficial relationship. This partnership allowed both institutions to advance their respective goals and contribute to the broader community. OSU provided a pipeline of talented graduates who went on to hold leadership positions within CH2M HILL. This created a symbiotic relationship where the university benefited from the success of its alumni, and the company benefited from the expertise and innovation fostered at OSU.
CH2M HILL, in turn, supported OSU through various initiatives, including financial contributions and collaborative research projects. This commitment to giving back to its alma mater solidified CH2M HILL's legacy as a company deeply rooted in its origins.
The CH2M HILL Alumni Center: A Hub for Connection and Collaboration
The physical embodiment of this enduring partnership is the CH2M HILL Alumni Center, a 40,000-square-foot meeting and conference facility located on the OSU campus. This privately funded facility, made possible by an initial donation from CH2M HILL, serves as a central hub for alumni engagement and university events.
The Alumni Center comprises the Cascade Ballroom, multiple breakout rooms, and a welcoming lobby. Its strategic location adjacent to the LaSells Stewart Center creates a major event and conference space for the university, further enhancing OSU's capabilities as a host for regional and national gatherings.
The CH2M HILL Alumni Center is also home to the OSU Alumni Association, providing a dedicated space for alumni to connect with each other and with the university. It stands as a symbol of CH2M HILL's commitment to fostering a strong alumni network and supporting the ongoing success of OSU. The Special Collections and Archives Research Center (SCARC) has collected a large variety of sources over the years that contain the history of the CH2M Hill Alumni Center. Facilities Services Records, 1888-2003. Series XX: Campus, Farm, and Property Maps, 1899-1990.
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Endowed Professorship and Continued Support
CH2M HILL's commitment to OSU extends beyond the Alumni Center. In 2017, the company made a significant $1 million gift to establish an endowed professorship at OSU. This generous contribution supports faculty excellence and research innovation within the university, ensuring that future generations of students benefit from the same high-quality education that propelled the founders of CH2M HILL to success.
This endowed professorship serves as a lasting tribute to the legacy of CH2M HILL and its enduring commitment to OSU. It represents a continued investment in the future of engineering education and research.
The CH2M HILL Alumni Association: Preserving Relationships and Friendships
Recognizing the importance of maintaining the connections forged during their time at CH2M HILL, former employees established the CH2M HILL Alumni Association (CHAA). This organization plays a vital role in preserving and maintaining the relationships and friendships built within the company.
The CHAA provides a platform for alumni to stay connected with former colleagues, share experiences, and continue to support each other's personal and professional growth. Through various events and initiatives, the CHAA fosters a strong sense of community among its members.
Scholarship Activities and the CHAA Legacy Gift Fund
A key focus of the CHAA is supporting future generations of engineers through its scholarship activities. All scholarship programs are managed by volunteers and funded through tax-deductible donations to the CHAA Legacy Gift Fund, a Section 501(c)(3) public charity organization.
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This fund provides financial assistance to deserving students pursuing degrees in engineering and related fields. By investing in the education of future engineers, the CHAA ensures that the legacy of CH2M HILL continues to inspire and empower generations to come.
