DES PLAINES, IL (December 27, 2001) - To help advance education, research and professional development in the area of workplace safety, the American Society of Safety Engineers' (ASSE) Region I, which consists of members from Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska and Hawaii, and the San Francisco and Greater San Jose Chapters recently presented the ASSE Foundation (ASSEF) with a total of $3,600. Funding for the Foundation comes from corporations and ASSE members - individual and through chapters countrywide.

Region I members from Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska and Hawaii, donated $2,500 to the Foundation for the region's student scholarships.

ASSE Region I Vice President Brian A. Clarke, of Portland, OR, said, "Our region is proud to support the Foundation and its commitment to the safety profession. These funds will be used to help further educate occupational safety and health students."

The San Francisco Chapter, with over 400 ASSE members, donated $1,000 to the Foundation to be used for the national student scholarship fund. The Greater San Jose Chapter, with over 300 ASSE members, donated $100 to the Foundation to support research, education and professional development.

Through its programs the ASSEF is committed to ensuring the future of the occupational safety and health profession by providing financial resources to individuals and organizations. Last year the Foundation awarded eight scholarships to occupational safety and health students across the country. Each year the Foundation awards funds for applied safety research, scholarships, fellowships, internships and professional development. Applications for these awards are available on-line at www.asse.org/foundat.htm.

Founded in 1911 and celebrating its 90th anniversary, ASSE is the oldest and largest professional safety and health organization and is dedicated to protecting people, property and the environment. Its over 30,000 members manage, supervise, and consult on safety, health and environmental issues in industry, insurance, government and education.