DePaul University is taking a significant step in advancing its role in business technology education with the establishment of the Dr. Curtis J. and Mrs. Gina Crawford Institute for Business Technology Leadership. This initiative is made possible through a generous $2.6 million donation from Dr. Curtis and Mrs. Gina Crawford.

The institute, housed at DePaul’s Richard H. Driehaus College of Business, aims to equip students with essential leadership skills in the business technology sector through comprehensive career-based education, including training, mentoring, and direct work experiences.

Additionally, the Crawfords' gift has established the Crawford Scholars Endowment, which offers financial support to high-achieving undergraduates interested in pursuing careers in business technology leadership at both the Driehaus College of Business and DePaul's Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media.

The institute will also provide faculty members with research grants focused on career development while offering opportunities for professional growth and collaborative research to inspire students.

“The Crawford Institute will strengthen interdisciplinary connections, cultivating a dynamic learning environment where entrepreneurial thinking and technological proficiency will drive advancements in industry growth and societal progress,” stated DePaul President Robert L. Manuel.

Curtis Crawford, an alumnus of DePaul University with extensive experience in the business technology field as founder, president, and CEO of XCEO Inc., emphasized their commitment to fostering innovation among students and faculty: “The primary goal is to foster innovation and excellence in students and faculty, particularly for students from underrepresented populations.”

The new institute complements existing programs at DePaul such as degree offerings in various technological fields including cybersecurity and data science along with interdisciplinary centers like the Business Education in Technology and Analytics Hub.

Driehaus College of Business Dean Sulin Ba highlighted that “the Crawfords’ partnership will connect our students with industry experts... making them highly desired by employers immediately upon graduation.”

Furthermore, Jarvis College Interim Dean Lucia Dettori remarked that this initiative would enhance technical skills acquired by students while embedding ethical leadership qualities crucial for future success: “By blending business acumen with technological expertise we are preparing... leaders to drive meaningful change across industries.”