Drexel University distinguished alumni, Vincent and Judith Vidas, have generously designated an endowed gift in the amount of $1M to the College of Engineering to ensure the continued success of the Systems Engineering degree program.
“Vince and Judy’s appreciation and enthusiasm for Drexel is an inspiration,” says College of Engineering Dean Joseph Hughes. “The College is particularly grateful for their commitment to academic innovation, and for their gift, which will impact our students and faculty for many years to come.”
The Vidas’ endowed gift will be used to support the expansion of the Systems Engineering program, housed within the Department of Engineering Management. The program will be renamed The Vince and Judy Vidas Endowed Systems Engineering Program in their honor.
Vince and Judy have had a consistent, supportive relationship with the University for many years. Vince, a two time alumnus of the College of Engineering and Judy, an alumna of the LeBow College of Business, met while they were both students at Drexel. Together they devoted their time, generosity and vision to advancing excellence and improving the student experience at the University.
Vince earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in electrical engineering from Drexel. A member of the Drexel Athletic Hall of Fame, he is one of the most decorated football players and the only one to ever be named to two All-America teams. After graduation, Vince went on to co-found SEMCOR, Inc., a high-tech consulting firm specializing in integrated systems solutions where he spent three decades as President and CEO. The firm ultimately employed 1,200 people in 24 states. Upon SEMCOR’s acquisition by Advanced Communication Systems Corporation, Vince served as Chief Operating Officer until his retirement.
Vince has been the recipient of Drexel’s prestigious Golden Dragon Award and has been inducted into both the Drexel 100 and the College of Engineering’s Alumni Circle of Distinction. Most recently, he and Judy received Drexel Alumni Association’s highest honor, The A.J. Drexel Paul Award for Service to Alma Mater, at the 2014 A.J. Drexel Society Gala.
Both avid Drexel sports fans, Vince and Judy’s generosity and leadership have played a key role in the revitalization of the athletic fields now known as the Vidas Athletic Complex. They have also made major contributions to the Crew program. Vince has served on the Athletics Planning Committee and continues to serve on the Athletic Director’s Leadership Council.