James Stana (MS ’74) has spent more than 40 years giving back to Caltech, the place that helped shape both his career and his enduring passion for discovery. In 1981, just a few years after earning his graduate degree in mechanical engineering, Stana contributed his first gift of $25. Over the next four decades, he consistently supported the Institute through gifts to the Caltech Fund. In some years, he amplified his contributions by leveraging an employer match.

"I give to Caltech because I know firsthand the impact that a transformative education can have," Stana says. "I want to ensure that future generations of students have the same opportunities that I did."

Most recently he expanded his contributions to support graduate fellowships, which provide graduate students the freedom and flexibility to pursue research of greatest interest to them. Fellowships are one of five pillars in the Initiative for Caltech Students, a fundraising campaign that recently raised over $250 million to enhance virtually every aspect of the student experience. More than $112 million has been raised specifically for graduate fellowships.

A Techer’s Journey

Growing up in western Pennsylvania, Stana was always drawn to tinkering—taking apart lawn mowers and exploring how things worked. As his brothers were already studying electrical and chemical engineering, Stana followed his own path into mechanical engineering, earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh.

When it came time for graduate school, he considered several institutions. A professor suggested Caltech—a place that felt almost beyond reach. Stana applied and was delighted to receive an acceptance letter along with an offer of a research fellowship. That fellowship solidified his decision to pursue his graduate degree at Caltech, and he began the cross-country drive to Pasadena.

En route, Stana’s car broke down and he had to take a bus for the final trek to campus. Once he arrived, the cafeteria was closed due to the Labor Day holiday, so he caught a ride to a local grocery store. "It started with a real adventure," he says. "I had no idea what to expect."

While at Caltech, Stana gravitated toward earthquake engineering and thermal sciences. He was particularly inspired by Rolf Sabersky, professor of mechanical engineering, emeritus. "He made everything practical and engaging. The work in Sabersky’s course was fascinating," Stana says. "And I got to use my brand-new electronic calculator, which was $400 for a four-function calculator!"

After graduation, Stana maintained a close relationship with Sabersky, visiting him whenever he could and taking him out for dinner after he retired. "It amazed me how sharp he remained even decades later," Stana recalls. Sabersky passed away in 2016 at age 96, and Stana honored his memory with a gift in his name.

Giving Others a Chance

Stana spent a majority of his career with the Lockheed Martin Corporation, retiring in 2013 to start his own company in 3D printing. He continues to make giving a priority.

"So many things in my life have gone right, and I recognize that I had opportunities that others might not have," he says. "My family was not wealthy, and I received financial support when I needed it. I want to make sure that others have that same chance."

The generosity of alumni like Stana plays a vital role in helping the Institute provide a best-in-class student experience. In fact, Caltech alumni represented 61 percent of giving to the Initiative for Caltech Students. The campaign, which launched publicly in 2023, highlighted five pillars to support student success including undergraduate scholarships, career advising, health and wellness, and the co-curricular experience in addition to graduate fellowships.

A Small School with a Big Impact

Stana’s connections to Caltech include interests in global warming solutions and mechanical and thermal engineering that keep him engaged with the latest research coming out of the Institute.

"I continue to follow Caltech’s work closely and it’s incredible to see how much impact such a small school can have," he says. "Big institutions can be slow to react, but Caltech can pivot quickly to take on the most pressing challenges. That’s what makes it special."

As Stana reflects on his decades of giving, his motivation remains the same: a deep appreciation for Caltech’s role in his life and a desire to help shape its future.

"I know that Caltech will continue to produce world-changing discoveries," he says. "And I want to be part of that future."