The dean of one of the nation’s largest computer science schools will be the featured speaker at a fundraising breakfast for the Naperville Education Foundation May 8 at 7:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Naperville, 1801 N. Naper Blvd.

Helmut P. Epp is the dean of DePaul University’s School of Computer Science, Telecommunications and Information Systems (CTI). Epp will discuss the current generation of children who never have known a world other than one that is connected to the Internet, how they are developing their own relationship with and consciousness of technology, and what role educators and parents will play in these events.

Epp is the first dean of DePaul CTI. Since its founding in 1995, it has grown into one of the largest and most comprehensive computer science programs in the country. With nearly 2,400 graduate students enrolled in 10 master’s degree programs and one doctoral program, the school produces 42 percent of Illinois’ post-baccalaureate information technology workers. Additionally, nearly 2,000 undergraduates are enrolled in seven different degree programs.

In addition to his 28 years on the faculty at DePaul, Epp created the E-Commerce Technology Institute for CTI to conduct applied research in partnership with the electronic commerce industry. He also supervised development of Course OnLine, a unique distance learning computer system that allows students to review synchronized video and audio of entire class lectures, including board notes and computer presentations. The system now is used in more than 300 courses at DePaul.

DePaul’s Naperville Campus, 150 W. Warrenville Road, is an 85,000-square-foot facility that features a technologically advanced library, computer laboratories, student lounges and a bookstore. Student services are also available on-site by appointment, including financial aid, academic advising, and career counseling. In addition to the degree offerings, several non-degree certificate programs are offered at the campus, including a computer career program certificate and a management development center certificate.

Established in 1992 by Naperville School District 203, the Naperville Education Foundation is a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization that acquires and distributes financial and other resources that shall be used for programs and projects to enhance or supplement Naperville Community Unit School District 203 educational programs and provide enriched opportunities for learners. The foundation’s goals include promoting development for learners of all ages, encouraging employee innovation and creativity and encouraging school/community partnerships. The foundation has awarded hundreds of grants to local faculty and has provided scholarships for graduating high school seniors.

Tickets for the breakfast are $65 per person and can be reserved by phone. For more information or reservations, call Beth at the Naperville Education Foundation at 630-961-9443.