Stan Terada

In Stan Terada’s own words, he was overeducated.

Attending high school near Boeing Field during what he called the “era of space,” Stan developed an interest in engineering and a love of tinkering. In his collegiate career, he earned bachelor’s degrees in aerodynamics and astrodynamics engineering and mechanical engineering, and a master’s in mechanical engineering, all from the University of Washington. He also received an MBA from Pacific Lutheran University.

Stan’s achievements went well beyond the walls of a classroom. He was a commissioned U.S. Air Force officer, scaled the five major peaks in Washington state, traveled extensively and had a successful career working at several Washington companies, including 20 years of service with Weyerhaeuser.

Stan’s philanthropic support of the UW began in 1987, while he was still a student. Over the years, he directed his gifts to the College of Engineering’s Diversity & Access Retention Fund and the Mechanical Engineering Chair’s Fund for Excellence.

Sue Brennan, the College of Engineering’s associate director for advancement, met Stan in 2015. “We talked for a long time—maybe two hours,” Sue recalls. “In reflecting on all he was blessed with, he wanted to give back.” Stan had an especially deep appreciation for mechanical engineering. “He really felt his mechanical engineering degree moved his career forward.”

Even through health issues, Stan continued to attend the Engineering Lecture Series and pursue his plans for future gifts. “He kept his goals for impact and legacy at the UW at the top of his mind,” Sue remembers. Stan’s estate gift benefits students studying mechanical engineering and supports the UW’s commitment to a diverse student population, one that includes individuals of varying ages, genders, races, national origins and talents, and those from underrepresented populations and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Sue considers herself lucky that she was able to get to know such a generous man while working to help him fulfill his philanthropic wishes. “He had quite a remarkable life,” she says.