A lasting tribute to Ruth and John Jurenko honors a legacy of generosity, vision, and unwavering support for HudsonAlpha

HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology dedicated one of the main roadways leading to its biotech campus in memory of Ruth and John Jurenko, two of its most devoted supporters. Thanks to a generous memorial gift from the Jurenko Foundation, the road has officially been named Jurenko Way.

Located between Genome Way and McMillian Way, named in honor of HudsonAlpha co-founder Lonnie McMillian, Jurenko Way serves as a permanent tribute to a family whose legacy of generosity and commitment has shaped the Institute and the Huntsville community.

John Jurenko, who passed away in 2015, was a co-founder of Adtran and a visionary philanthropist in north Alabama. Alongside McMillian and Mark C. Smith, he helped found Adtran in 1985, but his impact extended beyond the world of business. As passionate supporters of HudsonAlpha, John and Ruth believed in HudsonAlpha’s mission of advancing genomic research and scientific innovation. Jurenko Way is a moving tribute to their longstanding service and support of HudsonAlpha.

“I’m honored to be able to celebrate such an amazing family as the Jurenkos,” said HudsonAlpha President Neil Lamb, PhD. “Their family’s generosity spans generations and shows the far-reaching impact one family’s gifts can have on an organization like HudsonAlpha. It’s fitting that Jurenko Way sits at the intersection of Moquin Drive, Hudson Way, and McMillian Way, because these gentlemen have had an indelible mark on HudsonAlpha, Cummings Research Park, and Huntsville. I would like to thank the Jurenko family for their impact on our community and the many ways they’ve supported HudsonAlpha.”

The dedication is deeply personal for the Jurenko family. “We dedicate this road as a tribute to my parents, who walked every step of their journey together,” said Janet Brown, one of Ruth and John’s daughters. “When my father was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, he poured himself into research, advocacy, and hope through the incredible work happening at HudsonAlpha. Because of my parents’ love for HudsonAlpha, we are so happy their name will be a permanent part of the HudsonAlpha campus.”

Her sister, Carole Jones, added, “Jurenko Way is not just a road; it’s a symbol of perseverance, commitment, courage, and love. My father refused to let his diagnosis define him, and together, my parents created meaning out of hardship and served others even when their own burden was heavy. I encourage others to be inspired by their example and walk their own path with their compassion and conviction.”

Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle, who attended the dedication ceremony, also reflected on the couple’s contributions to the community. “Thank you to the Jurenko family for all this family has done for HudsonAlpha and our community. I’m personally very humbled to talk about John and Ruth. They were one of the most philanthropic couples in our community and had great visions for how they wanted our community to grow. They generously put their resources towards making those visions a reality. The Jurenkos were wonderful friends and an inspiration to many.”

As a nonprofit organization, HudsonAlpha relies on philanthropic support to support our vital genomics research programs.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can support HudsonAlpha, please contact Elizabeth Herrin, Senior Director of Advancement, at eherrin@hudsonalpha.org.