SAN JOSE, Calif., May 21, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- SunPower Corp. (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB), a manufacturer of high-efficiency solar cells, solar panels and solar systems, today announced that its CEO, Thomas H. Werner, has pledged $5 million to the College of Engineering at his alma mater, Marquette University, to establish an endowed chair in secure and renewable energy systems. Werner earned his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Marquette in 1986 and was named the college's Distinguished Alumnus of the Year in 2007.
"I am honored to offer this chair to Marquette and hope that it will inspire more executives to reach out to their alma maters," said Werner. "We know that outstanding faculty members can drive significant research and attract students to their field of study. Our hope is that the Werner Chair will create additional interest and advances in harvesting sustainable solutions."
Werner has served as SunPower chief executive officer and as a member of the SunPower Board of Directors since June of 2003. Prior to joining the company, he held the position of chief executive officer of Silicon Light Machines, Inc., an optical solutions subsidiary of Cypress Semiconductor Corp. Previously, Werner was vice president and general manager of the Business Connectivity Group of 3Com Corp., a network solutions company. He has also held a number of executive management positions at Oak Industries, Inc., and General Electric Co., and currently serves as a board member of Cree, Inc. and the Silicon Valley Leadership Group. Werner also holds a master's degree in business administration from George Washington University. He was named Northern California Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007.
About SunPower
SunPower Corporation (Nasdaq: SPWRA, SPWRB) designs, manufactures and delivers high-performance solar electric systems worldwide for residential, commercial and utility-scale power plant customers. SunPower high-efficiency solar cells and solar panels generate up to 50 percent more power than conventional solar technologies and have a uniquely attractive, all-black appearance. With headquarters in San Jose, Calif., SunPower has offices in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. For more information, visit www.sunpowercorp.com.
SunPower is a registered trademark of SunPower Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
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