Manhasset resident Michael Strianese said that the quality of the math and science education he received while attending Xaverian High School in Brooklyn in the early 1970s laid the foundation for a career in national security technology that has earned him a spot on Defense News’ list of the 100 most influential people currently working in defense in the United States.
That’s why, Strianese said, he and his wife have donated $1 million to the school’s STEM program to modernize its science, technology, engineering and mathematics courses in the coming years.
“Scientific and technological advancements drive innovation, jobs and economic growth. To maintain our competitive edge, we need academically gifted students with the expertise needed to drive our economy and help protect our nation,” said Strianese, the chairman, president and chief executive officer of the aerospace company L-3, in a statement released by the school. “Through this program, Xaverian provides its students with the necessary resources to succeed, and I am honored to help the school produce future leaders in our industry.”
Xaverian officials said the donation was made in conjunction with Project Lead the Way, a non-profit organization that helps develop hands-on STEM curriculums at elementary, middle and high schools across the country.
Xaverian’s program, founded in 2013, would offer students “project and problem-based learning through hands-on classroom experiences” in which they would “create, design and build…while being exposed to the industries where these skill sets are needed most,” according to a news release from the school.
According to the U.S. Department of Education, STEM-related jobs will increase significantly in the next decade, with the need for biomedical engineers increasing a projected 62 percent, medical scientists up 36 percent and systems software developers up 32 percent.
“With this remarkable gift from Mr. and Mrs. Strianese, Xaverian is moving forward by offering a 21st century science and math curriculum,” Xaverian president Robert B. Alesi said in a statement. “Our goal is to be the premier Catholic school in New York state, offering a comprehensive STEM program for the students in grades 6-12 and this gift will help us implement our vision of what catholic education in the state can and should be.”
