The MakerSpace at Tulane University, which offers students and professors access to digital fabrication tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, milling machines and lathes as well as traditional hand and power tools, will be named the Scot Ackerman MakerSpace, thanks to a generous gift from Dr. Scot Ackerman (E ’78), a radiation oncologist and medical director of the Ackerman Cancer Center in Jacksonville, Florida. 

“MakerSpace is an indispensable re­source for Tulane scholars and researchers who teach and discover across the fields of architecture, engineering, art, medicine and more,” Tulane President Mike Fitts said. “We are so grateful to Scot for supporting this vital part of our mission of interdisciplinary research and learning.”  

“Over the years, I mentored many students who utilized the MakerSpace as part of their science and engineering projects — many of whom have gone on to national competitions,” Ackerman said. “I want to ensure that these students have all the tools they need to become the next generation of innovators.”

Most of the funds will be used to establish the Scot Ackerman Endowed Fund. Cedric Walker, professor emeritus of biomedical engineering and director of the MakerSpace, said Ackerman’s gift will be used, in part, to buy a water-jet cutter and a large-format laser cutter.

“The large-format laser cutter is the most asked-for tool among current MakerSpace users,” Walker said. Ackerman served on the Tulane Parents Council as well as his 35th Reunion Committee and currently serves on the Tulane Hillel Board of Directors and the School of Science and Engineering Board of Advisors. In 2018, Ackerman received the Outstanding Service Alumnus Award from the School of Science and Engineering.