Professor Anne Simon's Generous $16M Donation to Boost UMD Research on Viruses and Infectious Diseases

A Landmark Donation to Support Research at the University of Maryland

In a remarkable gesture of generosity, Professor Anne Simon of the University of Maryland has pledged a substantial $16 million gift aimed at bolstering research efforts within the Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics. This donation is designed to support critical research on viruses and infectious diseases affecting both people and plants, thereby empowering students, postdoctoral researchers, and faculty alike.

Professor Simon, who is not only a respected plant virologist but also a well-known scientific adviser for the iconic TV series "The X-Files," is directing $15 million of her gift primarily toward establishing two endowed professorships, specifically in the realms of virology and plant biology. In addition, it will fund multiple postdoctoral and graduate fellowships, thereby fostering a vibrant research environment within her department.

"I want to pay it back," Simon remarked, reflecting on her profound gratitude towards her department. "I owe it all to my department. I want to keep good people here and attract good researchers, especially junior faculty, in these fields that I love."

The remaining $1 million of her donation will support the Sondra Simon Memorial Maryland Promise Scholarship, a tribute to her late mother, who dedicated over thirty years of her life to aiding students in Los Angeles public schools.

This philanthropic initiative is part of the broader Forward The University of Maryland Campaign for the Fearless, which, with Simon's contribution, has now amassed a total of $943 million.

UMD President Darryll J. Pines commended Simon’s influential role in advancing vital research on global challenges and ensuring that this momentum continues through her philanthropic actions. "Anne Simon has used her position at the forefront of one of the most exciting areas of biology to create innovative solutions for pressing global challenges, bringing great distinction to the university," Pines stated.

Simon's philanthropic efforts are deeply connected to her work at Silvec Biologics, a company she co-founded with her brother in 2019 to combat the devastating citrus greening disease that has severely impacted citrus crops in Florida and beyond since its emergence in 2005. Utilizing advanced RNA technology to vaccinate trees against this bacterial infection, Simon’s innovative approach has the potential to extend beyond citrus to other crops, effectively minimizing reliance on pesticides and fungicides. Her groundbreaking research promises far-reaching implications for agricultural practices and food security.

Kevin S. McIver, chair of the department, expressed that Simon's substantial gift represents a transformative opportunity to enhance ongoing research in infectious diseases, plant biology, and RNA studies. In light of recent global challenges such as the pandemic and environmental pressures impacting biological systems, this influx of funding is expected to fortify UMD's extensive research efforts. "Stressed crops lead to more infections. We just had a global pandemic. This gift, which is across the breadth of the research enterprise, is a game changer," McIver elaborated.

Since joining UMD in 2000, Simon has been instrumental in establishing the department's distinguished reputation both nationally and internationally. She has led significant advancements in virology while fostering collaborations with esteemed institutions, including the National Institutes of Health, and creating a renowned graduate program that attracts top-tier talent.

In addition to her academic contributions, Simon's involvement with "The X-Files" as a scientific consultant illustrates her commitment to bridging science with popular culture. This unique role allows her to share her expertise in a way that resonates with a broader audience, ensuring that scientific concepts are represented authentically on screen.

Looking forward, Simon hopes to inspire her fellow faculty and alumni to give back to their academic roots, urging others who have carved successful paths to reflect on the importance of supporting future generations of researchers. "For other faculty who have been able to start successful companies, it's time to say, 'We need to give back to what got us to this place.'" She emphasizes the vital role that philanthropy plays in sustaining and expanding the research endeavors that educate or advance the next wave of scientific discovery.

Simon's remarkable donation not only reflects her passion for research but also her commitment to cultivating an environment that nurtures future scholars. As the University of Maryland prepares to channel this funding into transformative initiatives, Simon's legacy will undoubtedly inspire countless individuals in their pursuit of knowledge and discovery.