Dr. Jack and Jane Peck Establish Prestigious Scholarship to Advance Academic Excellence in the Sciences

Dr. John "Jack" Peck, a distinguished three-time graduate of the Ray P. Authement College of Sciences, and his wife, Jane Peck, a proud alumna of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, have generously established the Jack and Jane Peck Academic Excellence Scholarship.

Dr. Peck earned his bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1966 and master’s degree in 1968, and was the first student to receive a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the University, completing his studies in 1971.

He worked at Clemson University in South Carolina for 30 years, starting as an Assistant Professor of Mathematical Sciences, then served as an Associate and Full Professor of Computer Science. He served as the Department Head of Computer Science before retiring in 2001. While there, he authored numerous refereed publications and secured and managed numerous funded research projects.

Dr. Peck served as Chairman of the Board for Foxfire Technologies Corporation for 20 years. He then started and served as President and CEO for FastFetch Corporation. Under his leadership, the company was granted both US and International patents to increase performance and accuracy in distribution centers using a combination of light directed, voice and bar code scanning technologies.

In recognition of his enduring legacy of academic achievement, the newly endowed four-year scholarship seeks to recruit and retain high-performing undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Computer Science, Informatics, or Mathematics within the College of Sciences.

“This unique scholarship in the College of Sciences will not only provide financial support to a deserving student but also encourage them to explore their interests and engage in creative and scholarly activities,” said Dean Azmy Ackleh. “Ultimately, this enhancement of their undergraduate experience may inspire them to pursue graduate studies. It is fitting that the University’s first Ph.D. graduate, Jack Peck, has paved the way for future students to excel and advance their educational journey.”

Thanks to the vision and generosity of Jack and Jane Peck, this transformative opportunity will alleviate the financial burdens often associated with higher education, empowering students to focus wholeheartedly on their academic growth and intellectual exploration.