Putting Georgia Tech Within Reach for Every Student
“I wanted to financially support Georgia Tech, as well as future generations of chemical engineers in the Co-op Program, and this was an excellent way for me to accomplish that.”
Born and raised in Atlanta, Ernest L. “Les” Eaton was familiar with Georgia Tech’s outstanding academic achievements and sports reputation from a young age. As a high school student, he ushered at football games at Grant Field. When it came time to choose a college, Georgia Tech was easily his first choice. Sadly, he passed away in October 2021, but his support still reverberates powerfully at Georgia Tech.
As an undergraduate, Eaton was a member of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket Marching Band and participated in the Cooperative Education Program, an experience that provided him with valuable work experience and taught him the value of perseverance.
After graduating, Eaton served his country in the United States Army and ultimately retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. In addition to his military career, Eaton worked in jet engine and rocket design at Pratt and Whitney Aircraft. He went on to fulfill his lifelong dream to become a commercial pilot, serving as a pilot for United Airlines for nearly four decades until his retirement in 2001. Since then, Eaton had continued to explore the world, pursuing his love of travel. He has also served in the U.S. Power Squadron, and worked in his Florida community with an organization that helps veterans and underprivileged children.
Eaton had also been a member of The Hill Society, and demonstrated his deep commitment to his alma mater through a retirement account expectancy to establish the Ernest L. Eaton Scholarship Endowment in the College of Engineering, which will provide essential support for chemical engineering students who are participating in the Co-op Program. He continued to support the scholarship fund through outright gifts as well. It was a plan that worked well for him, and benefits Tech students.
“I wanted to financially support Georgia Tech, as well as future generations of chemical engineers in the Co-op Program, and this was an excellent way for me to accomplish that,” Eaton explained before his death.
His philanthropic legacy helps to ensure that the Institute continues to open doors of opportunity for academically qualified students who face financial challenges. By providing them with the resources necessary to reach their full potential, Eaton’s investment will make a true difference in the lives of Georgia Tech co-op students for generations to come.
Reflecting on your own Georgia Tech experience, or that of someone you love, can generate exciting ideas about how you can give back, just like Les Eaton. Please contact Gift Planning at 404.894.4678 or giftplanning@dev.gatech.edu to discover giving options that benefit both you and Georgia Tech.