Through a gift to HudsonAlpha’s Innovation Fund, Cindy and Gary Griner support adding trailblazing new faculty to the Institute’s scientific team

HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology introduced the Innovation Fund to raise critically needed resources essential to HudsonAlpha’s growth. In addition to supporting the purchase of new technologies, boosting promising projects, and training a STEM workforce, the Innovation Fund allows the Institute to grow its scientific impact by attracting pioneering new faculty members. It is a critical part of HudsonAlpha’s efforts to recruit researchers in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.

When Cindy and Gary Griner learned about the opportunity to bring new talent to HudsonAlpha, they knew this project fit perfectly within their charitable giving plans. Their generous gift will help make bringing our next faculty member to HudsonAlpha a reality. 

In recognition of their donation, the HudsonAlpha Foundation named the Cindy and Gary Griner Storytelling Alcove in their honor. It is a space where students and members of the public can learn about the Institute’s research. Here, the Griners share how they were inspired to support the Innovation Fund and why they are excited about the addition of this new faculty member.

HudsonAlpha Foundation: You are both incredible supporters of the Huntsville community by way of the time that you give as well as your philanthropic gifts. What causes do you care about supporting, and how does HudsonAlpha fit into that?

Cindy Griner: Gary and I have been impacted by Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases in my family. We’ve seen firsthand how heartbreaking these diseases are, and as our population ages, more and more people will succumb to them. This cause is very near and dear to us, and that’s why we’ve had a longtime interest in HudsonAlpha.

Gary Griner: HudsonAlpha is at the center of energy and excitement in science and discovery. We’re lucky to have a chance to be a part of that because big things are happening at HudsonAlpha.

HAF: How did you first become involved with HudsonAlpha?

CG: We’ve been fortunate to have been aware of HudsonAlpha since it was first built, and we quickly became involved with educational programs like the Biotech 101 and 201 Series. Our children have even attended summer programs here. 

HAF: What inspired you to make a gift in support of hiring new faculty?

CG: A scientist’s work impacts millions. It’s a gift that goes beyond us and our family. Hastening discoveries in neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disease is vital. There is an opportunity to help people worldwide for generations to come. 

HAF: What would you say to a donor who may also be considering making a gift? What value does HudsonAlpha bring to our community, and why should we support it?

CG: I believe that you can impact the most people most positively through charitable giving to HudsonAlpha. You have the opportunity to help millions of people. I don’t know of any other way to donate and have that same kind of impact.

If you are interested in joining Cindy and Gary Griner in supporting the Innovation Fund, please reach out to the HudsonAlpha Foundation by calling 256-327-0422, or emailing foundation@hudsonalpha.org.