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The University of New Mexico

Donor focus: Jake Hollowell

photo: Jake Hollowell and woman

Jake Hollowell first learned he wanted to be an engineer as an intern at the UNM plasma lab building electronic circuit boards, power supplies, optical mirrors and antennas with Dr. Mark Gilmore.

Since earning his bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from UNM in 2008, Hollowell has performed systems engineering and integration, most recently, as a senior systems engineering manager for Peraton, which supports information technology modernization and enterprise operations for the U.S. government.

Hollowell currently serves on the School of Engineering Alumni Leadership Board and continues to grow the Visionaries of Infinite Potential (VIP) Endowment Fund, which he helped establish, that provides financial aid to new UNM engineering students.

How did you choose to give back to UNM?
I donate monthly to the VIP Endowment, which I started with a few other alumni. See our page here. I also donate my time by mentoring undergraduates, helping them define what type of job or business they want to pursue and helping them prepare for the job applications and interviews. I have also organized four 5K runs at UNM called “Run Nerds Run,” each raising approximately $3,000 for the VIP Endowment. It’s called “Run Nerds Run,” because it’s a run competition for fastest times and also a costume contest of who can dress up like the coolest or most interesting nerd.

Why did you choose to give back to UNM?
I want to help the next generation become more educated and help make the world a better place. I was awarded scholarships as an undergraduate that I was extremely thankful for, and I wanted to give back as soon as I had a full-time job.

What do you hope your gift will accomplish?
Our goal for the VIP Endowment is to raise $100,000 for scholarships by the end of 2023. This will generate scholarships for UNM’s Engineering schools every year and will be a gift that keeps on giving.

Why should others consider giving back to UNM?
Others should give back to make their community successful by donating their time and/or money. UNM students need support from the community, to know we believe in their future and are willing to help them achieve their goals and dreams.