University of California, Riverside
Honoring the Past, Investing in the Future
Sam Konyn '79 turns a lifelong bond with UCR into a legacy for future engineers
Long before UCR had a College of Engineering, Sam Konyn '79 was studying mathematics and exploring the emerging field of computer science. Decades later, he is helping engineering students find their own paths. After the passing of his wife, Cathleen "Cathy" Konyn '80, Sam established the Cathleen and Sam Konyn Endowed Student Project Fund to honor her memory and give students hands-on learning opportunities. This summer, he strengthened that legacy with a $1 million estate gift. "Student success is a major passion of mine," says Sam, who also serves as a UC Riverside Foundation trustee and on the Dean's Council of Advisors.