How Hope Kinch is empowering the next generation of scientists through philanthropic support of HudsonAlpha’s education programs

Since HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology first opened its doors, Hope Kinch has been a constant supporter of HudsonAlpha’s mission. A lifelong educator and advocate for learning, Hope has been giving to HudsonAlpha for many years, helping to sustain the growth and impact of the Institute’s Educational Outreach initiatives.

Hope is originally from Mississippi, but she moved to Alabama in the 1950s and spent over 40 years shaping young minds as a science teacher there. With a special interest in biology and chemistry, Hope’s curiosity and dedication to education inspired her to learn more about HudsonAlpha after she retired in the 2000s.

A believer in the power of science to improve lives, Hope knows how important it is to equip teachers and students with the tools to understand the world of genetics and biotechnology. After meeting Dr. Neil Lamb, HudsonAlpha’s former Vice President for Education Outreach and now President, Hope knew right away she was interested in being more involved. 

From attending the Biotech 101 and 201 courses to making philanthropic gifts to support HudsonAlpha’s STEM programs, Hope has been a passionate champion of HudsonAlpha’s education programs. Her support has helped launch summer camps that spark young scientists’ imaginations, equip teachers with new engaging curriculum, and create opportunities for college students to grow their STEM skills. For Hope, giving isn’t just about making a donation. It’s about investing in the future of science in her community.

Q&A with Hope Kinch

HudsonAlpha Foundation: You’ve been a supporter of HudsonAlpha for many years. Tell us about your background and how you got involved.
Hope Kinch: I was a science teacher off and on for over 40 years. I retired in 2000, and that’s around the time I became interested in HudsonAlpha. There couldn’t have been anybody more interesting than Dr. Neil Lamb. He’s my top vote for a teacher! As someone who loves teaching and has a passion for science, I believe strongly in what HudsonAlpha is doing, especially in education.

HAF: What has inspired you to support HudsonAlpha all these years?
HK: I believe in putting your money where your mouth is. If I’m going to talk about HudsonAlpha and be involved, then I’m going to support it to the best of my ability.

HAF: You’ve chosen to support HudsonAlpha’s education programs in particular. What drew you to that cause?
HK: When I first started giving, I wanted to give towards education because I understand firsthand how important it is. I’ve watched HudsonAlpha’s education programs grow over the years. I want educators and students to get the support they need to explore science deeply. Those programs are very important to me.

HAF: What excites you most about what your gifts make possible?
HK: The future excites me. The summer camps at HudsonAlpha are incredible. Kids are learning things over and above what they get in the classroom, and they’re excited to be there. The teachers are outstanding, and the students are there because they want to learn.

HAF: What would you say to someone considering a gift to HudsonAlpha?
HK: HudsonAlpha is doing science that helps make us healthier by studying DNA. They’re researching Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, diseases that have affected many of my friends, and I know that research matters. I’m also really interested in the peanut research. I had no idea how important peanuts are as a protein source for so many people. Coming from a farm community, and with my father being an agriculture teacher, that means a lot to me. We need to improve food supplies for this growing population we have.

HAF: In your eyes, what value does HudsonAlpha bring to the community?
HK: HudsonAlpha brings the future of science and medicine right here to our community. It creates jobs, brings scientists here, and it just makes living in this community more interesting. I think it’s a positive presence for our community.