Money for health research
The Medical College of Wisconsin and Froedtert Hospital launch a $225 million campaign to promote innovation in health care.
The Medical College of Wisconsin and Froedtert Hospital announced Wednesday the public launch of a wideranging Hope to Health Campaign.
The aim is to raise $225 million to “drive health innovation” in Milwaukee and across the state.
Since fundraising began in 2015, the campaign has raised $209.5 million from 20,000 donors, with 38 donors contributing $1 million or more.
The campaign will accelerate research, including to combat cancer, advance patient care and transform health care education.
“We know the challenges, and the world looks to us for innovation,” said John Raymond Sr., president and chief executive of the Medical College of Wisconsin. “As the only academic health system and largest biomedical research institution in eastern Wisconsin, and top provider of doctors for the state, we have a responsibility to drive breakthroughs and innovations that elevate health in our community. We need philanthropic partners to help us realize our vision.”
Cathy Jacobson, president and chief executive of Froedtert Health said: “The funds raised through the Hope to Health Campaign will allow us to continue to further our vision and to bring both hope and health to as many people as possible in our region, state and beyond.”
Among the major donations:
The Linda T. and John A. Mellowes Endowed Innovation and Discovery Fund contributed $6.5 million to advance genomic sciences and precision medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin.
The Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Trust and Kern Family Foundation gave $37.9 million, the largest individual non-corporate philanthropic gift in the medical college’s history. The Kern Institute and Kern National Network for Caring and Character in Medicine seek to transform medical education.
Previously, the Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer Fund announced a $25 million pledge for the medical college and Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin to accelerate research to fight pediatric cancer and blood disorders.
The campaign’s advisers include Jon Hammes, Ted Kellner, David Lubar and Linda Mellowes.
“Every day, people come in search of hope and they find it because the finest researchers and best clinicians are right here in our own backyard,” Mellowes said. “These incredible institutions are making our community a healthier place, and they are truly deserving of our support.”