Kazmier donations lead to classroom namings at Florida Poly

LAKELAND, Fla. (BLOOM) – In a heartwarming tribute to their mothers, Dr. Faeza Rashid Kazmier and Dr. Peter Kazmier have each donated $50,000 to Florida Polytechnic University. Their generous contributions have resulted in the naming of two classrooms in the Barnett Applied Research Center, marking a significant impact on the University’s educational mission.

Dr. Faeza Kazmier, daughter of the renowned Florida Poly electrical and computer engineering professor Dr. Muhammad Rashid, expressed the importance of education and the boundless opportunities available in America. “We cannot control our circumstances of birth, but we can improve our lives with education,” she said. “Through these donations, we are honored to support our community and students, and we look forward to the bright future that lies within our future generations’ hands.”

The newly named classrooms, rooms 1123 and 1142, pay homage to the Kazmier family matriarchs. Room 1123 is now the Dr. Fatema Rashid Classroom, honoring Dr. Faeza Kazmier’s mother for her dedication and sacrifices. Similarly, room 1142 has been named the Eva Kazmier Memorial Classroom in memory of Dr. Peter Kazmier’s mother. Dr. Faeza Kazmier emphasized the significance of choosing adjacent classrooms, symbolizing the reflective contributions of both mothers.

“My husband and I picked mirror image classrooms to honor our mothers who have given and sacrificed so much for us,” Dr. Faeza Kazmier shared. “We thought it would be fitting to have the reflecting rooms.”

Growing up in a home with limited luxuries, Dr. Faeza Kazmier witnessed her parents’ commitment to philanthropy. Her father, Dr. Muhammad Rashid, has established several scholarships and recently launched Florida Poly’s first endowed chair, underscoring the family’s belief in the transformative power of education.

“My parents believe and know education changes lives, influencing generations as it has for themselves,” Dr. Faeza Kazmier said. “They demonstrate true altruism, and I am honored they are my parents. I hope to be as capable of this level of altruism as well and always keep in the back of my mind that I have to make sure this is a part of my life plan – philanthropy is my opportunity to do so.”

Kathy Bowman, Florida Poly’s vice president for advancement and CEO of the Florida Poly Foundation, praised the Kazmiers’ generosity. “Drs. Peter and Faeza Kazmier’s generosity and support are incredible to see,” Bowman said. “Through this support, Florida Poly will be able to advance many educational opportunities for our talented STEM students.”

About Florida Polytechnic University: Florida Polytechnic University is ranked as the top public college in the Southeast Region for three consecutive years and boasts a top 20 public engineering program without a Ph.D. in the nation. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Florida Poly is dedicated exclusively to STEM education and offers ABET-accredited degrees. The University is a significant economic engine in Florida, combining applied research with industry partnerships to provide students with a rigorous and relevant education. The iconic Innovation, Science, and Technology Building, designed by world-renowned architect Dr. Santiago Calatrava, has received over 20 global awards and is recognized as one of the 16 most breathtaking buildings in the world. Connect with Florida Poly for more information.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.