Sherwin-Williams to Commit $1 million toward Materials Research at Case Western Reserve University

CLEVELAND, Nov. 2, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The Sherwin-Williams Company (SHW) announced plans today to commit $1 million toward materials research through the Institute for Advanced Materials (IAM) at Case Western Reserve University.

With the commitment, the Cleveland-based producer of paints and coatings combines nearly 150 years as an international leader in materials and coatings with Case Western Reserve's extensive research in advanced materials and polymers. The funding will support collaborative projects with Case Western Reserve faculty and graduate students aimed at creating innovative designs in coating technologies.   

"Sherwin-Williams' work with the Institute for Advanced Materials and our faculty has helped to fuel a number of innovations in materials research across the Case Western Reserve campus, and we are delighted that this commitment will build on our productive partnership," said Stuart Rowan, director of the institute and Kent Hale Smith Professor of Engineering at Case Western Reserve. "We are excited for the potential of our continued collaboration and the vision, not only to advance coatings technologies, but also make a positive impact on our region's economy." 

Founded in 2010, IAM aims to enhance and energize Ohio's industrial base and manufacturing capability by leveraging a broad range of materials as a foundation for innovations in multiple technology sectors.

The institute provides an interdisciplinary research approach at Case Western Reserve, serving as an engine to advance new materials research and enhance the region's economic viability.

"We deeply appreciate Sherwin Williams' long engagement with our university and more recent involvement with our Institute for Advanced Materials," said W.A. "Bud" Baeslack III, provost and executive vice president. "The institute has catalyzed impressive partnerships within Case Western Reserve, and this new commitment will foster even more collaboration between our organizations. We are very grateful."

The two institutions, whose roots each date to the 1800s, have partnered on various endeavors since Sherwin-Williams opened its first chemistry research lab 75 years ago on what is now the Case Western Reserve campus. The global coatings company has previously invested in research through IAM, has routinely sponsored university events and has participated in executive education programs at CWRU.

The company and university share a history in other areas as well. The son of one of the firm's co-founders served as a trustee at Adelbert College and Cleveland College, both of which became part of what is now Case Western Reserve. And several Case Western Reserve graduates have served in executive positions at Sherwin-Williams, including former Chief Executive Officers Walter Spencer and Jack Breen and several vice presidents. More than 70 CWRU alumni currently work for Sherwin-Williams.

"Our industry leading R&D team and Innovation Excellence culture are the fuels that drive Sherwin-Williams to create the best products for our customers," said Diana Strongosky, SVP R&D Global Supply Chain and Director of the Breen Technology Center. " Our continued success and growth depends on a robust innovation pipeline. Long term productive partnerships, like the one we have with CWRU, are critical to developing best in class technology and the next generation of research scientists who will pioneer continuous innovations which increase shareholder value and financial performance."

About Sherwin-Williams Breen Technology Center

Modern laboratories located on the historic site of Sherwin-Williams first manufacturing facility on the bank of the Cuyahoga River in downtown Cleveland are home to Sherwin Williams' Breen Technology Center (BTC). 

A team of 350 chemists, scientists, and engineers are responsible for developing innovative processes, products, and technology solutions for Sherwin-Williams' architectural products.  

BTC is responsible for product development, coatings research, color technology, microbiology, materials development and process engineering.

In addition, platform research and polymer development initiatives allow the BTC Center to support innovative product development across other business segments of the company globally.

Our technical talent focuses on providing solutions that add value to our customers and experiences the thrill of discovery and problem solving with everyday innovations.

Interesting Fact: 41% of our chemists, scientists, and engineers are women.

About Sherwin-Williams

Founded in 1866, The Sherwin-Williams Company is a global leader in the manufacture, development, distribution, and sale of coatings and related products to professional, industrial, commercial, and retail customers.

With 41,715 associates and $11.1 billion in sales, S-W is the USA's #1 paint and coatings company; #3 in the world.

The company manufactures products under well-known brands such as Sherwin-Williams®, HGTV HOME® by Sherwin-Williams, Dutch Boy®, Krylon®, Minwax®, Thompson's® Water Seal®, Ronseal™, Sayerlack®, Euronavy®, Altax™ and many more.

With global headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio, Sherwin-Williams® branded products are sold exclusively through a chain of more than 4,100 company-operated stores and facilities, while the company's other brands are sold through leading mass merchandisers, home centers, independent paint dealers, hardware stores, automotive retailers, and industrial distributors.

The Sherwin-Williams Global Finishes Group delivers a wide range of products to the automotive refinishes, product finishes, and protective and marine markets in 115 countries around the world. For more information, visit www.sherwin.com

About Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University is one of the country's leading private research institutions. Located in Cleveland, we offer a unique combination of forward-thinking educational opportunities in an inspiring cultural setting. Our leading-edge faculty engage in teaching and research in a collaborative, hands-on environment. Our nationally recognized programs include arts and sciences, dental medicine, engineering, law, management, medicine, nursing and social work. About 4,900 undergraduate and 5,900 graduate students comprise our student body. Visit case.edu to see how Case Western Reserve thinks beyond the possible.

Contact:

Mike Conway
Sherwin-Williams
Director, Corporate Communications
Direct: 216.515.4393
Pager: 216. 422.3751
[email protected]

Bill Lubinger
Case Western Reserve University
Director of Media Relations and Communications
216.368.4443
[email protected]

SOURCE The Sherwin-Williams Company