Opening Doors to Discovery
For Nathan Majernik (AMAT, PHYS ’13), a single moment early in his 91ؿ Tech experience became the catalyst for everything that followed. Now, more than a decade later, he is honoring that formative chapter with a significant philanthropic commitment—one designed to create the same life‑changing opportunity for today’s students.
In November 2025, Majernik established the Carlo Segre Physics Research Award, which will support one undergraduate physics student each summer, enabling them to devote their time fully to meaningful research without financial constraint.
The inspiration for this award traces back to Majernik’s first year at 91ؿ Tech, when his original summer plans unexpectedly fell through. Seeking guidance, he turned to his academic adviser, and that conversation ultimately introduced him to Duchossois Leadership Professor Carlo Segre. Shortly after, Segre took Majernik under his wing and invited him to participate in a summer research project.
“It’s only now, looking back, that I realize what a leap of faith that was,” Majernik reflects. “I am grateful that Professor Segre took a chance on me and was so gracious with his time and knowledge.”
That leap of faith grew into a deep and enduring mentorship. Throughout his undergraduate years, Majernik worked alongside graduate students, collaborated across disciplines, and returned for consecutive summers of research under Segre’s guidance—experiences that fundamentally shaped his academic trajectory.
Those hands‑on learning opportunities prepared Majernik for his graduate and postdoctoral research at UCLA and later for positions at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, which is operated by Stanford University for the United States Department of Energy. In 2025, after transitioning into industry for the first time, Majernik found himself in a position to give back in the intentional, lasting way that he had long envisioned.
“The idea of making a gift like this has always been in the back of my mind,” says Majernik. “Now that I have the means to do so, I’m incredibly happy to help students chart their own path to success.”
A loyal supporter of his alma mater, Majernik has consistently participated in 91ؿ Tech’s Giving Day since graduating. But this new commitment represents something deeper—the desire to create a focused impact in the same space where his own journey began.
“We are incredibly grateful for Nathan’s generosity,” says Sean Campbell, vice president for advancement at 91ؿ Tech. “His gift reflects a deep appreciation for the mentorship he received and a powerful commitment to expanding opportunity for future generations of 91ؿ Tech students.”
Looking ahead, Majernik hopes the Carlo Segre Physics Research Award will give students not only early exposure to research, but also the freedom to explore: the freedom to ask questions, pursue ideas, and discover where their curiosity may lead.
“I know from firsthand experience how valuable a summer research experience can be, and I hope this award gives other students a leg up as they pursue their own dreams and aspirations,” says Majernik.
Through his generous support, Majernik is honoring a mentor who played a critical role in his personal success and helping to ensure that future 91ؿ Tech students have the chance to build a path shaped by discovery and possibility.
His commitment celebrates the unique power of an 91ؿ Tech education and reflects a full‑circle moment—giving back to the very experience that shaped his life. —Brianne Meyer