McClung Lighting Research Foundation

Inspiring Illumination

The McClung Lighting Research Foundation was established to honor the contributions of Jim McClung for his leadership at Lithonia Lighting and in the lighting industry.

The Foundation was established in 2001 by Acuity Brands, its associates, and industry colleagues. The Foundation was the first in the industry to provide grants to researchers and visionaries to improve the understanding of complex industry issues through lighting research. It remains one of the most prominent not-for-profit organizations funding research in lighting and related technologies.

Since its inception, the Foundation has sponsored research resulting in significant impact in the areas of light and health, energy and environment, safety and security, and outdoor lighting

CONTACT

VISION & HISTORY

JIM MCCLUNG

PROJECTS

LEADERSHIP

CONTRIBUTE

Vision & History A Vision Brought to Life

The vision of the McClung Foundation is to encourage creative thinking, scientific exploration, and new solutions to advance the lighting industry’s understanding of complex issues. The Foundation is receptive to research that explores the effect of light on personal health, safety, productivity, and the environment. In time, the application of this knowledge will advance technology, inspire designs, and conserve natural resources. The lifelong vision of Jim McClung will be continued.

Jim H. McClung – A Legacy of Vision and Leadership

During his 36-year tenure, including 24 years as President, Lithonia Lighting became the largest lighting fixture manufacturer in the world driven by organic growth, advancements in technology and key acquisitions.

In addition to his leadership of the Lithonia organization, McClung also served as Chairman of the Board of Governors of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). He served as Senior Manufacturers Advisor to the National Association of Electrical Distributors and was also a member of the Board of Governors and Executive Committee of the Industry Data Exchange Association (IDEA). He was a member of the World Presidents Organization, the Illuminating Engineering Society of North America and the Electrical Manufacturer Club, as well as a member of the National Service Industries, Inc. Board.

McClung passed away in August 2019, leaving a legacy of significant achievements in the lighting industry as well as countless inspired lighting professionals and colleagues.

Jim H. McClung

Project Submittals

The McClung Foundation seeks to support scientific exploration to advance the industry’s understanding of complex issues and result in new technologies and design applications. The Foundation is receptive to research that explores the effect of light on personal health, safety, productivity and the environment. The Foundation also supports research leading to the advancement of the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) technical standards.

Projects

Overhead Statement

Researchers interested in submitting a proposal for funding may provide a funding request including the project description, requested funds and project timeline. Review the Research Proposal Review Criteria prior to submitting a proposal for consideration.

The McClung Foundation gives preference to projects where the preponderance of funds go directly to the research work. Projects with an overhead of 15% or less are given preferential consideration. Projects with overhead costs in excess of 50% will not be considered.

Research Proposal Review Criteria

Statement Regarding Overhead for Project Funding

All Sponsored Research

Submit a Project for Consideration

Leadership

Cheryl English, PresidentIndependent Consultant Terry McGowan, Executive Vice PresidentOwner, Lighting Ideas, Inc. Dan Smith, SecretaryIndependent Consultant Sam Kirk, TreasurerVP, Accounting, Acuity Brands Randy Burkett, DirectorPresident and Design Principal,Reed Burkett Lighting Design Barry Goldman, DirectorSenior VP and General Counsel Acuity Brands

Craig Marquardt, DirectorVP, Engineering, Optical Innovation Acuity Brands Jeff Quinlan, DirectorVP, Engineering & Illumination Acuity Brands Rich Westrick, DirectorVP, Controls Engineering Acuity Brands

Technical Review CommitteeKevin LeadfordPeter Ngai David Ramer Melissa Ricketts

Contribute

Join us in supporting critical work that explores science to advance the lighting industry and technical standards. The McClung Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and your donation may be tax deductible. Please consult your tax advisor. In memory of Bill Astary, the McClung Research Lighting Foundation is accepting donations to further advance Bill's passion for education and research. Scan the QR code to learn more about the Memorial Fund and visit the donation page. 40% of all donations will support the McClung Foundation, with the remaining 60% supporting the Besal Lighting Education Fund.

Interested in Learning More? Email: Samuel.Kirk@AcuityBrands.com

Questions? Please email us at: mcclungfoundation@acuitybrands.com

Acuity Brands, Inc. 1170 Peachtree St NEAtlanta, GA 30309ATTN: Lisa Larkin

Jim McClung, former Chairman and CEO of the Lithonia Lighting Group, retired on December 31, 2000, after 36 years with Lithonia Lighting. He joined Lithonia in 1964 after receiving his MBA from Harvard Business School, a degree in Physics from Emory University, and serving in the Air Force as a Communication Electronics Officer. McClung worked in several capacities within the company holding such titles as Controller, Vice President of Sales, and Vice President of Manufacturing before becoming President and CEO in 1976.

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Join us in supporting critical work that explores science to advance the lighting industry and technical standards.