From plants to human health, Elaine and Earl Alspach are passionate about all aspects of HudsonAlpha’s genomics research

It was a love of farming and gardening that brought Elaine and Earl Alspach to HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. When the Kathy L. Chan Greenhouse was still just a concept, Elaine, along with several other members of the community with a demonstrated interest in gardening, was invited to consult with Alex Harkess, PhD, on how the greenhouse should take shape.

Through volunteering with the greenhouse, Elaine became more acquainted with HudsonAlpha’s mission, not just in plant genomics but also in human health, and knew Earl would enjoy being involved too.

Before long, Elaine and Earl were attending the Biotech 101 and 201 series, HudsonAlpha’s former public education program, and their relationship with the Institute has grown ever since. Today, the Alspachs are proud HudsonAlpha Ambassadors, passionate donors, and frequent guests at HudsonAlpha’s public events.

As a retired engineer who grew up as a farmer, Earl has a keen interest in science, particularly in plant science as it relates to improving farming and making practices more efficient, profitable, and sustainable. Elaine shares Earl’s passion for STEM as a retired engineer and self-proclaimed science geek, with a keen interest for how genomics research is improving everything from agriculture to human health.

In addition to their interest in farming, the Alspachs are captivated by the Institute’s work in human health. As their son struggles with a rare bone disease, HudsonAlpha’s work in rare genetic diseases and the Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine holds a special place in the couple’s heart.

“It has been exciting to learn more about everything HudsonAlpha is doing, and we just want to be a part of it,” said Elaine. “So many areas of our life relate to HudsonAlpha’s research.”

Read on to learn more about why Elaine and Earl Alspach are excited to support HudsonAlpha and why their giving brings them hope.

HudsonAlpha Foundation: How does HudsonAlpha align with your philanthropic goals?

Elaine Alspach: We enjoy supporting causes that support people in need around the world. HudsonAlpha’s work feels very personal to us, but it also makes a positive difference for people everywhere.

Earl Alspach: We believe in supporting organizations that are committed to accomplishing the work they say they’ll do. With HudsonAlpha, we can tell employees in all departments are excited to come to work, and they believe in the mission. HudsonAlpha is committed to our community and improving people’s lives around the world.

HAF: One of the areas that speaks to you most is our plant science programs. What makes you excited about HA’s work in this area?

Earl Alspach: Farming relies on a very delicate balance, and yet so many lives depend on it. Through the work on plant genomics, HudsonAlpha is improving agricultural science, helping people find meaningful jobs in agriculture, and helping feed people. That’s real impact.

Elaine Alspach: Discoveries are constantly unfolding at HudsonAlpha that make a difference in many areas. Whether it’s in agriculture or human health, HudsonAlpha understands the impact answers can make and how they can change lives.

HAF: What impact are you most excited for your gifts to have?

Elaine Alspach: We have known so many people who have been impacted by HudsonAlpha’s research. The Smith Family Clinic has made a difference in the lives of several of our friends, and the strides made in neurodegenerative disease research are remarkable. We want to see this sort of work continue and are excited to push it forward.

HAF: For people who may also be considering making a gift to HA, what would you tell them?

Elaine Alspach: By all means, attend some of the public events to help identify what areas at HudsonAlpha might interest you. There’s something for everyone at HudsonAlpha, you can support the Institute broadly or more specifically with something that speaks to your heart.

Earl Alspach: HudsonAlpha is sure to peak your interest, and any support will help tremendously. Not just in our community, but also for communities far and wide.

As a nonprofit organization, HudsonAlpha relies on philanthropic support to fuel genomics research and STEM education.

If you’re interested in learning how you can support HudsonAlpha, please contact Elizabeth Herrin, Senior Director of Advancement, at eherrin@hudsonalpha.org or 256.327.0442.