Terry Jester.

Terry Jester, a longtime leader in the field of solar energy, recently created scholarships for students in the College of Engineering and Computer Science at her alma mater, California State University, Northridge.

Jester ’79 (Mechanical Engineering) was one of very few female mechanical engineering students during her time at CSUN. For more than 30 years, she has been an influential figure in the solar and other renewable energy industries, and in the electronic manufacturing industry — including executive positions and board memberships with numerous companies. Recently, she became managing director of North American operations for PI Berlin, a leading risk management and quality assurance service provider for solar equipment.

Jester has earned high praise for her work — including the 2015 Women in Solar Energy Award from the American Solar Energy Society.

The scholarships at CSUN will help two students each year develop their skills and talents to become the innovators of tomorrow. Preference will be given to students involved with the Society of Women Engineers and WISE (Women in Science and Engineering).

“I’m inspired by our ability as engineers to change the world, and if this small part can help a deserving engineer, it is my honor and privilege to do so,” Jester said. ” My CSUN education has served me in infinite ways, I’d love to help someone else have the same strong wind behind them.”

Thanks to the CSUN Foundation’s Matador Match Challenge for 2022, which matched eligible donations dollar-for-dollar, Jester’s gift will support four students each year.

To contribute to the Terry Jester Scholarship Fund or to create one of your own, please contact the CSUN Office of Development at (818) 677-7586 or development@csun.edu.

College of Engineering and Computer Science, CSUN Matador Match Challenge, Giving, Matador Match Challenge, Philanthropy