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Transformative Philanthropy at UCLA Health

In a remarkable show of generosity, Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg have pledged a significant donation of $31 million to the UCLA Research Park, specifically aimed at advancing biomedical research at the David Geffen School of Medicine. This latest commitment marks an impressive total of $60 million from the Ginsburgs to UCLA, underscoring their unwavering support for educational and research initiatives.

A Commitment to Future Leaders

The essence of this donation is to ensure that future generations have access to vital education and resources in the biomedical sciences. UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk expressed his gratitude, highlighting how the Ginsburgs’ vision will catalyze breakthroughs in research aimed at tangible solutions, fostering collaboration across disciplines and strengthening ties within the industry and community.

Dr. John Mazziotta, vice chancellor of UCLA Health Sciences and CEO of UCLA Health, emphasized the critical role of this gift in supporting scientific investigators. As the challenges faced by early-career researchers can often be daunting, the Ginsburgs’ pledge aims to directly confront these hurdles by providing comprehensive support for those transitioning from trainees to faculty roles.

Allocation of Funds

The allocation of the $31 million is strategic and impactful:

• - Graduate Student Support: $11 million will be directed to the Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Fund for Graduate Student Support. This initiative will provide essential financial backing for graduate students, doctoral trainees, and postdoctoral candidates. It targets the financial stresses that can hinder the academic progress of promising researchers, covering tuition, research costs, housing, and other essential expenses.
• - Biomedical Frontiers Fund: Another $10 million will establish the Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Biomedical Frontiers Fund, designed to finance innovative and promising research projects in the biomedical field within the UCLA ecosystem.
• - Infrastructure Development: The final $10 million will be dedicated to enhancing the facilities at the UCLA Research Park, ensuring that state-of-the-art laboratories and tools are available to support groundbreaking research.

Honoring a Legacy

To recognize this transformative commitment, UCLA will name several spaces in honor of the Ginsburgs, including the Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Foyer, the Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Paseo, and the Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Innovation Bridge. These names will not only commemorate their present and future contributions but also serve to inspire future generations of biomedical researchers.

The Ginsburgs have been long-time advocates for advancing human health and well-being. Dr. Allen Ginsburg, a retired ophthalmologist with deep ties to UCLA dating back to his residency, expressed his belief in the critical role of science in clinical care. He emphasized that their investment aims to ensure future generations are equipped with the necessary resources and mentorship to continue improving human health.

Charlotte Ginsburg added that their commitment aims to foster a culture of scientific inquiry and innovation that extends beyond their lifetimes, as demonstrated by the establishment of the Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Research Foundation.

The Future of Biomedical Research at UCLA

Dean Dr. Steven Dubinett of the Geffen School of Medicine lauded the Ginsburgs’ extraordinary gift, portraying it as an essential element in creating a robust ecosystem at the UCLA Research Park. Their philanthropic efforts will undeniably enhance the landscape of biomedical research, enabling UCLA to produce pioneering discoveries that will benefit patients far and wide.

As UCLA continues to champion advancements in science and health, the impact of the Ginsburgs’ generosity reinforces the vital link between philanthropy and research, showing how impactful contributions can help foster a future of innovation and excellence in medicine.