Engineering Dean Larry Benefield said the funding will provide four-year tuition scholarships with preference given to students from Eleanor Loyds hometown of Tallassee, Ala. and surrounding Elmore County. Recipients will be recognized as Loyd Scholars.

"With the establishment of this endowment, the Loyds create a tremendous opportunity for the next generation of engineers," said Benefield. "Scholarships serve as a powerful student recruiting tool, and support of alumni and friends makes those scholarships possible."

Raymond Loyd, a 1961 mechanical engineer graduate, and Eleanor Loyd, a 1959 physical education graduate, met as Auburn students and were married in 1959. While he completed his studies, she taught physical education at Tallassee High School.

During his career Raymond Loyd was a design engineer at General Electric Co. in Louisville and founded Derby Industries then Derby Fabricating of Louisville, one of the nations leading fabricators and converters of non-metallic and insulation components used chiefly in the automotive industry.

Loyd said the scholarship is inspired by the quality education he received at Auburn and his wife's devotion to and fond memories of Tallassee.

"I've had a very successful career because of my Auburn engineering education," he said. "Eleanor and I both have a deep love for Auburn and want to give something back."

Eleanor Loyd added, "I had to follow my heart and my heart wouldn't let me choose to establish this scholarship anywhere other than Auburn. I hope that one day the recipients will give back as well, and help others who want to attend Auburn."

The Loyds' gift is a term endowment that will be expended over the next 20 years. It is anticipated that 11 students will be selected for the first scholarship class.