Western Governors University Receives Donation of Notebook Computers from HP

SALT LAKE CITY -- Western Governors University (www.wgu.edu) has been awarded 60 new notebook PCs by HP to support the rapid growth in students and faculty at the online, competency-based university.

According to WGU President Robert Mendenhall, this most recent donation of HP nc6230 Business Notebooks brings total support from HP and the HP Company Foundation for WGU to more than $750,000 over the last six years. Dr. Bess Stephens, vice president of Corporate Philanthropy and Education at HP, serves on the WGU Board of Trustees.

"HP has been a key corporate partner of WGU and our efforts to improve distance learning, including the crucial high-tech equipment involved," said President Mendenhall. "The HP notebooks will fill a tremendous need for our faculty mentors, who interact with students primarily via computer."

WGU has more than 100 mentors, living in 26 states, most of whom work out of their homes. WGU mentors, who are generally PhD's in their disciplines, are assigned to students when they enroll and stay with them through graduation, providing direction, advice, and encouragement.

About Western Governors University (WGU)
WGU is the only accredited university in the U.S. offering online competency-based degree programs. The private non-profit university was founded and is supported by 19 governors, as well as over 20 leading corporations and foundations. WGU offers bachelor's and master's degrees in business, information technology, and teacher education. More information is available at www.wgu.edu.