Students at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) in Portland are now benefiting from the donation of 28 new Dell computers with artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced monitors, giving them access to state-of-the-art technology to excel in an increasingly digital world.

The gift comes from late philanthropist and long-time supporter of the institution, Denna Bogle, her family, and the Christ Church of Waltham, Massachusetts, where she was a devoted member.

The information technology laboratory at CASE was renamed the Denna Bogle Computer Laboratory in honour of the gift and was officially relaunched during a ceremony on March 19.

CASE president Dr Derrick Deslandes expressed gratitude for the generous donation from the Bogle family, noting that their gesture offers valuable lessons in compassion and commitment to education.

“It is about humanity and how humans step out to help each other unflinchingly, unfailingly, without reward… not expecting praise,” Deslandes pointed out.

Tanya Sinclair, Region 2 community relations education officer in the Ministry of Education, stated that the donation of AI-enhanced computers represents the future of education.

“[It represents the] consistent advancement for the way we study, perform our professional duties, and our overall existence,” she noted.

Sinclair emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in financing education to meet international demands.

She noted that “the Christ Church from Waltham and the Denna Bogle family are showing us how well public-private partnership can move education”.

CASE past student and widower of Denna Bogle, Anthony Bogle, representing the Bogle family, urged students and lecturers to make the best use of the newly equipped laboratory.

Reflecting on his wife’s life and legacy, Bogle said she remained committed to her quest to “leave this world better than she found it”.

“She always gave of herself and her talent in a very quiet manner,” he further stated.