American Journal of Veterinary Research: How Philanthropy Drives Discovery at UC Davis
Whether it be endowed chairs, grants, summer research scholars, new spaces, equipment, or clinical trials, philanthropy is paving the way for major breakthroughs in animal and human health.
This source of funding is likely to become even more critical as federal research agencies become constrained. Here at the University of California (UC)-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, we have been increasingly successful in driving biomedical research through philanthropy.
Donor-driven endowments in our Center for Companion Animal Health and the Center for Equine Health provide over $1.5 million annually in grants, equipment, matching support, and start-up funds.
They also support approximately 75 research projects that can provide critical preliminary data for future exploration and larger grant funding.
One passionate school supporter is Lin Zucconi, who credits UC Davis for helping her cats lead long lives despite the many health issues they have endured. In addition to supporting multiple programs and serving on our Dean’s Leadership Council, she recently established the Zucconi Feline Family Support Fund with the Center for Companion Animal Health. The fund is helping the center develop treatments for cats with chronic and infectious diseases.