Roanoke College announced that it would be naming its new science center after Shawn M. McConnon (Beta Rho–Roanoke ’64). McConnon pledged an additional $5 million for the construction of the innovative new facility, bringing his total support to $20 million.
“I believe this is a critical moment in the history of Roanoke College – one of innovation and transformation – and I love where the college is going,” McConnon said. “We must be bold to compete in this competitive higher education environment. I want this building to be called the Discovery Center to fulfill our quest and dream of being a visionary leader in science and related disciplines. I hope many new discoveries occur in this facility and in the lives of our students.”
A groundbreaking ceremony was held during the 2024 Alumni Weekend, and construction is already underway for the Shawn McConnon Discovery Center.
McConnon founded four successful cybersecurity companies including Raptor Systems, Okena, Q1 Labs, and BitSight Technologies. The first three companies sold for more than $1 billion combined.
McConnon said Roanoke College and his KA experience were instrumental to his success.
“As I reflect on my life, I see clearly the role that Roanoke College has played in my success,” McConnon said. “Roanoke College was transformational for me. It has become very important for me to give back to the institution which was so formative to my learning, personal growth and journey through life. The lessons I learned from my friends, fraternity brothers and professors taught me much and helped sustain me through my 50-year high-tech career.”
McConnon was a top sprinter, running anchor on Roanoke’s champion 4×100 relay team, majored in biology and earned a minor in chemistry.
“Your investment will change the lives of students in good and powerful ways,” he said. “Earlier generations of Maroons did this for me, and I’m grateful to pay this forward to the next generations of Maroons. I hope that my example will encourage other alumni and friends to give generously to the college.”
Read More at Roanoke.edu.
