Eric Swanson, Economist, University of California, Irvine | University of California, Irvine
Eric Swanson, Economist, University of California, Irvine | University of California, Irvine
The Clemons Family Foundation has announced a significant donation of $11 million to support cancer research and infrastructure development at the University of California, Irvine. This contribution will aid the construction of the Falling Leaves Foundation Medical Innovation Building and the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and Ambulatory Care building at UCI Health – Irvine.
Dr. Steve Goldstein, vice chancellor for health affairs, expressed gratitude for the donation: “We are profoundly grateful to the Clemons family for this remarkable gift. Their commitment to advancing cancer research and vision sciences will have a lasting impact on our community and far beyond.”
The majority of the donation, $9 million, is allocated to endow a fund for cancer research within the Falling Leaves Foundation Medical Innovation Building. This includes programs in cancer metabolism, cellular immuno-oncology, and precision oncology led by Dr. Richard Van Etten.
An additional $1 million is designated for completing construction of the medical innovation building, with plans to name its fifth-floor terrace after the Clemons Family Foundation. The final $1 million will assist in finishing construction at UCI Health – Irvine's medical complex.
In recognition of their support, a terrace on the fourth floor of the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center will be named the Clemons Family Outdoor Patient Infusion Area. This space aims to provide patients undergoing chemotherapy with a serene environment overlooking protected wetlands.
Marie Clemons commented on their motivation: “We are on the cusp of a new era of technological innovation with the ability to rapidly advance medicine, clinical trials and care.”
The Falling Leaves Foundation Medical Innovation Building is set to become one of the largest interdisciplinary research hubs on the West Coast upon completion this spring. It will focus on various high-impact research areas including cancer, neurosciences, vision, and stem cells.
UC Irvine’s Brilliant Future campaign continues its efforts to raise awareness and financial support for its initiatives. The university seeks to engage alumni and secure philanthropic investments as part of its ongoing campaign launched in 2019.
For more information about UC Irvine’s programs and developments, visit their official website or contact their media resources department.
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