Robert HitchcockChapman University’s Fowler School of Engineering donated 20 advanced 3D printers to the Orange Unified School District (OUSD), furthering the university’s mission to expand access to state-of-the-art technology and inspire the next generation of innovators.
The printers were loaded by Chapman students, faculty, staff, and Interim Dean Kendall Harris at the Keck Center for Science and Engineering. Harris personally helped transport and deliver the equipment to the OUSD central warehouse, where Superintendent of Schools Rachel Monárrez was on hand to receive the donation and thank the Chapman team.
This donation was made possible by Chapman’s ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology for its students. Engineering students have access to the school’s state-of-the-art Makerspace, which features industry-grade equipment including 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and other essential tools to enrich their educational experiences. As newer equipment is introduced, the university is able to share previously used tools like the Prusa 3D printers with community partners such as OUSD.
This contribution reflects the strong and ongoing partnership between Chapman University and Orange Unified School District. As a proud neighbor and community partner, Chapman is deeply invested in the success of local students and schools—offering resources, expertise, and collaboration that extend far beyond the boundaries of its campus.
“Chapman University is committed to investing in the latest technology for our students,” said Harris. “With this donation, we are extending that commitment to our broader community—giving local students access to the same tools that are shaping the future of engineering, technology, and innovation.”
This donation comes at an opportune time as OUSD prepares for the new school year. They plan to distribute the printers across 10 classrooms, supporting seven Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways and enhancing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) curriculum throughout the district.
“We are deeply grateful to our community partners at Chapman University,” said Monárrez. “This investment in our scholars will help spark creativity, support real-world problem-solving, and bring innovative learning to life in our classrooms.”
The gift reflects a vision of community impact that Chapman students and faculty say is central to their work.
“It’s super exciting to give these printers away,” said Chapman engineering student Diego Rubio. “Giving high school students the opportunity to use them is super fun and really rewarding.”
Harris emphasized the broader impact of partnerships like this: “This donation strengthens a pipeline from our local community to Chapman and ultimately to industry. We’re helping prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow by giving them access to technology today.”
