Koç University is a private, non-profit institution, founded in 1993 and located in Istanbul, Turkey. The University is supported by the financial resources of the Vehbi Koç Foundation, set up by Vehbi Koç, a leading Turkish businessman, “to serve humanity by increasing the number of people who can be of service to the Turkish nation,” and is committed to the pursuit of excellence in both teaching and research. In October 2000 Koç University moved to its permanent campus at Rumeli Feneri, Sarıyer, Istanbul located on a hill close to the city but far removed from the distractions of city life. It sprawls over a sixty-two acre site. The sixty buildings, academic and administrative - laboratories, library, dormitories, faculty residences, social and sports facilities are the product of a meticulous, integrated design. Drawing upon warm and natural materials, including stone, plaster, wood and clay roof tiles, the architecture is a blend of the historical style of İstanbul and the timeless characteristics of well-established academic institutions. It was founded in 1993 by the Vehbi Koç Foundation, with the aim of creating a world-class university and stimulating modern research.