President Zorica Pantic (left) with William Flanagan
A University Adviser, recipient of the 1993 Gold Leopard Award, and member of the 1904 Society, William “Bill” H. Flanagan, MC&TD ’51, Hon. ’11, long played an active role with Wentworth and his generosity has been one of the key reasons for the Institute’s success over the years.
The most recognizable example of Mr. Flanagan’s support is found in Beatty Hall, where he funded the Flanagan Campus Center, a 40,000-square-foot renovation to the existing student center and an 8,500-square-foot addition. It has become a vital hub for students on campus since its official opening in 2012.
The establishment of the Flanagan Campus Center was due to a $10 million gift made by Flanagan. Previously, he contributed $1 million to Wentworth in 1996.
“Mr. Flanagan gave us our campus living room, which has served as a wonderful home away from home, especially for our commuter students. He will always be remembered,” says Annamaria Wenner, dean of students and vice president for student affairs.
Mr. Flanagan earned his degree in Machine Construction and Tool Design in 1951, and an Honorary Doctorate degree in 2011. While attending Wentworth, he used the machine parts laboratory to create components for his racecar that he raced professionally.
Co-founding Amphenol Nexus Technologies in 1961, Mr. Flanagan set out to perfect the design and manufacture of superior quality audio plugs, jacks, and MIL-S-805/3 pushbutton switches. He sold Nexus after 47 years and it still operates out of Stamford, Conn. He additionally served with the Stamford Board of Representatives, as well as the Connecticut Business and Industry Association, and is credited with 17 U.S. patents.
“Bill was a strong, intelligent man who had a great passion for his work, his family, the stock market, and Wentworth,” says President Zorica Panti?. “His memory will live on here at the university through the incredible philanthropic support he demonstrated to our students.”
