EDUCATION Sharing the value of

Fred Lebow ’67 leaves a legacy for College of Engineering students inspired by his passion for learning.

When Fred Lebow ’67 was asked if he wanted a new diploma after the University’s name changed to UMass Dartmouth, he replied, “Sure, but do I have to take more courses?”

Given the chance, he may very well have.

Lebow has been a lifelong learner since his days at Southeastern Massachusetts Technical Institute studying electrical and mechanical engineering. As he explored working in disciplines that ranged from acoustical engineering to real estate development to construction to asbestos and lead removal, Lebow amassed a wealth of knowledge and started FSL Associates based in his native Brighton, Mass., in 1983. The company provides engineering solutions for high-tech electronic communications and real estate development. In addition to Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessments, FSL Associates offers comprehensive services in environmental, civil, and forensic engineering.

Never idle, Lebow has taken courses in masonry, construction, woodworking, and industrial photography; he even enrolled in a sewing course. At 50 years old, Lebow entered a continuing education program at Northeastern University’s Environmental and Regulatory Management Program. “There was hardly a year when I wasn’t taking a course,” he said.

He’s also a commercial pilot and a flight instructor, and is still cruising the skies today, though not as much as in the past.

“I used to fly a two-seater plane into JFK Airport in New York—that was a real exciting challenge.”

Lebow has visited UMass Dartmouth since his days as a young engineer and was inspired to support future engineers. As he approaches full retirement in two years, he searched for a way to leave a legacy at UMass Dartmouth and began the Frederick S. Lebow Scholarship Endowment for students in the College of Engineering.

“I believe education can change someone’s life,” said Lebow. “What impressed me about UMass Dartmouth was how much they supported students and helped them change their lives.”

Coming from a working-class family himself, Lebow understands that many students cannot afford to pursue their academic dreams and future careers without financial assistance. In planning his estate, Fred decided to commit a portion of his assets to build on his already established scholarship, and takes great satisfaction knowing that he’s providing support for future generations.

“I can’t think of a better way to make an impact. Education changed the course of my life. I think we should all do what we can to ensure everyone has the same access we enjoyed.”

You can make a big impact with a future gift

visit umassd.planmylegacy.org

This campus is a breathtaking monument to the power of public education, to the idea that everyone— from the grandchildren of textile factory workers and students of modest means, to recent immigrants, to working moms going back to school, to veterans charting new careers after their service to our country—deserves a place dedicated to helping them achieve their dreams. This campus of concrete and steel looks like it rose out of the earth, and now serves as a beacon of hope for the entire region and as the heartbeat and lifeblood of the SouthCoast. We educate the SouthCoast’s population, and our graduates and research programs help drive its economic development.”

Chancellor Mark A. Fuller, Ph.D.