The HudsonAlpha Foundation is pleased to show the impact of accelerating discoveries in genomics to make the world a better place.
2024
Accelerating discoveries in genomics to make the world a better place
Thank you for supporting HudsonAlpha
NEIL LAMB, PHD President, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology
The mission of the HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology is to improve life through genomics research, educational programs, and economic development.
If you were asked to describe HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, what would you say? I often think of HudsonAlpha as an explorer or trailblazer — pushing the frontiers of discovery and pointing the way to a healthier, more sustainable future. And because of philanthropic support from donors like you, that future is here today. Fueled by your generosity, HudsonAlpha has made incredible strides over the last year in tackling some of the world’s most urgent health challenges. With the addition of Dr. Andrew Kodani, who joined our faculty from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, we have expanded our work on childhood neurodevelopmental diseases, aiming to discover therapeutic solutions that improve clinical care and patient outcomes for children. Our researchers have made significant progress in understanding chemo-resistant cancer and the genetics of Alzheimer’s disease, in addition to discovering a potential new biomarker for ALS. We’ve also launched a Parkinson’s disease study in collaboration with the Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine, which has already enrolled over 100 participants. Our plant genomics teams continue to unlock the potential of plant DNA to address global issues like food insecurity and sustainability. By improving crop resilience to drought and disease, enhancing plant reproduction to boost crop yield and nutritional content, and optimizing plants to make biofuels and biomass, we’re contributing to a healthier, more sustainable world. In addition to research, HudsonAlpha’s education programs reached over 1.6 million learners last year and our classroom kits were used in 33 countries. Our economic development initiatives have continued to support innovation and entrepreneurship in the life sciences, making a profound and meaningful impact on our state’s economic landscape. A few hours south of Huntsville, HudsonAlpha Wiregrass has seen incredible growth over the last year as we aim to expand the Institute’s mission of genomic research, STEM education, and economic development into Alabama’s Wiregrass region. Together, we’re positively impacting lives and truly making a difference in the world. Your generosity and support of HudsonAlpha’s mission help make this possible and are deeply appreciated. On behalf of everyone at HudsonAlpha, THANK YOU for helping us build a better tomorrow!
With gratitude,
HudsonAlpha Institute for Research Updates
Using the power of genomics to improve life By studying DNA, HudsonAlpha scientists are unraveling the complex causes behind devastating diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS, cancer, and rare genetic disorders, paving the way for breakthroughs in diagnosis and treatment. Beyond healthcare, genomics also plays a vital role in improving the quality and resilience of the crops we rely on for food, creating a healthier environment, and preserving our planet’s natural resources.
Biotechnology
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GENOMICS ENABLES US TO UNCOVER THE UNDERLYING BIOLOGICAL MECHA- NISMS BEHIND THE MOST IMPORTANT CHALLENGES WE FACE, FROM DISEASE TO GLOBAL HUNGER AND A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT. AT HUDSONALPHA, WE’RE DEDICATED TO ADVANCING SCIENTIFIC
RESEARCH TO DRIVE IMPACTFUL DISCOVERIES THAT IMPROVE LIVES AROUND THE WORLD.
RICHARD M. MYERS, PHD CHIEF SCIENTIFIC OFFICER, PRESIDENT EMERITUS, FACULTY INVESTIGATOR, M. A. LOYA CHAIR IN GENOMICS
Scan to learn more about HudsonAlpha’s many scientific research labs and programs:
Neurodegenerative diseases
As our global population grows, age-related conditions like neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS, are more widespread. Today, these diseases affect over 65 million people worldwide, causing the people who suffer from them to experience a sharp decline in cognitive and physical functions. Though hundreds of neurodegenerative diseases exist, there are currently few treatments and no cures. Neurodegenerative diseases are incredibly complex, with many factors, including genetics and environmental influences, contributing to their onset and progression. Rick Myers, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer, and Nick Cochran, PhD, Faculty Investigator , are committed to better understanding the genetics of neurodegenerative diseases, working to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of these conditions and bringing us closer to more effective solutions. THE MEMORY & MOBILITY PROGRAM POWERS DISCOVERIES The Memory and Mobility (M&M) Program is fueled by philanthropy to support HudsonAlpha’s vital research on neurodegenerative diseases.
Rick Myers, PhD & Nick Cochran, PhD
ALS Through support from the M&M Program and the ALS Association , the Myers lab leads an exciting study in collaboration with Crestwood Medical Center’s ALS Care Clinic . Researchers are studying samples provided by ALS patients in our community to identify and validate a biomarker linked to ALS. This biomarker would help improve ALS diagnostics and inform treatment by monitoring disease progression.
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE Powered by funds from the M&M Program and the Alzheimer’s Association , Nick Cochran and his team are working to better understand a gene known to be involved in Alzheimer’s disease. The APP gene provides instructions for amyloid protein, the protein that clumps into damaging plaques around neurons that are a hallmark of the disease. By studying how APP is turned on or off, Dr. Cochran and his team hope to better understand the role it plays in Alzheimer’s disease risk and shed light on ways to regulate
through the American Parkinson’s Disease Association to study the gene SNCA . This gene provides instructions for a protein called alpha-synuclein that forms damaging Lewy bodies in the brains of Parkinson’s disease patients. By better understanding how SNCA is turned on or off, Rogers hopes to untangle the mysteries behind Parkinson’s disease risk and identify potential targets for new or existing treatments. This year, researchers in the Myers lab launched a study in conjunction with the Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine to identify a biomarker linked to Parkinson’s disease. Patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, as well as unaffect- ed members of their family or friends, may enroll at the clinic to donate samples for the study. Nearly 100 samples have already been collected, but there is room for more if you or someone you know may be interested in enrolling. Learn more at hudsonalpha.org/parkinsons-research.
the gene through potential therapeutics. PARKINSON’S DISEASE
The Cochran and Myers labs are committed to advancing Parkinson’s disease research. Bri Rogers, PhD, a Postdoc- toral Fellow in the Cochran lab, is leading research funded
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THE ABILITY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND THE ROLE OF APP IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE IS EXCITING. THIS KNOWLEDGE COULD LEAD TO MORE EFFECTIVE TREATMENTS OR EARLIER DIAGNOSES FOR PATIENTS EVERYWHERE. WE ARE DEDICATED TO IMPROVING THE LIVES OF THE COUNTLESS INDIVIDUALS AFFECTED BY
THIS DEVASTATING DISEASE. NICK COCHRAN, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
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THE GENETIC CAUSES BEHIND DISEASES OF THE BRAIN ARE QUITE COMPLEX, BUT GENOMICS IS A POWERFUL TOOL THAT ENABLES US TO FIND THE MISSING PIECES OF THE PUZZLE. THE M&M PROGRAM OFFERS CRITICAL SUPPORT THAT MAKES THIS IMPORTANT RESEARCH POSSIBLE, AND WE ARE BEYOND GRATEFUL TO THOSE WHO SUPPORT IT. YOU DIRECTLY CONTRIBUTE TO TRANSFORMATIVE DISCOVERIES THAT WILL IMPROVE COUNTLESS LIVES FOR GENERATIONS. RICHARD M. MYERS, PHD CHIEF SCIENTIFIC OFFICER, PRESIDENT EMERITUS, FACULTY INVESTIGATOR, M.A. LOYA CHAIR IN GENOMICS
PEOPLE SUFFER WORLDWIDE FROM NEURODEGENERATIVE DISEASES AND EXPERIENCE A SHARP DECLINE IN COGNITIVE AND PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS. MILLION+
Neurodevelopmental diseases
LIFE-CHANGING ANSWERS Roughly 1-3% percent of children around the world face neurodevelopmental disorders. Ranging from mild impairments to severe disabilities that require lifelong care, these conditions can be devastating for families as they struggle with the uncertainty of their child’s future. At HudsonAlpha, Faculty Investigators Greg Cooper, PhD , and Andrew Kodani, PhD , are working to uncover the genetic mechanisms behind these complex diseases. By using genomics, our researchers close the loop between diagnosis and treatment, providing children with more accurate diagnoses and improving quality of life through Dr. Cooper’s team uses computational tools to analyze genome sequencing data and identify genetic variations linked to a child’s symptoms. These findings can help a child’s care team identify more effective treatment plans, help families connect with support groups and other families with the same or similar conditions, obtain better support from insurance or social services, and participate in clinical trials. Over 2,000 children have been sequenced by Dr. Cooper’s lab, and over 40 percent of these had a genetic finding that may be relevant to their symptoms. the identification of therapeutic pathways. HOW GENETIC DISCOVERY LEADS TO DIAGNOSIS
Long-read genome sequencing is a newer tool being leveraged by Dr. Cooper’s lab to provide higher-quality sequencing information. By using long-read sequencing as a front-line method for sequencing, Dr. Cooper can uncover variations linked to disease in children’s genomes that may not be visible through other forms of sequencing. Early studies on long-read sequencing show 5-10 percent of undiagnosed children have relevant genetic findings that can only be seen by long-read sequencing. As the technology matures, this percentage is likely to grow. DIAGNOSIS RATE 2000+ CHILDREN SEQUENCED WITH NEARLY 40%
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THE PROMISE OF LONG-READ SEQUENCING FOR IDENTIFYING DISEASE-ASSOCIATED GENETIC VARIATION IS EXCITING. MY TEAM AND I UNDERSTAND HOW LIFE-CHANGING A GENETIC DIAGNOSIS CAN BE, AND WE ARE MOTIVATED EVERY DAY TO COME UP WITH WAYS TO UNCOVER NEW AND PREVIOUSLY HIDDEN RESULTS THAT MIGHT BE INFORMATIVE. THROUGH THIS WORK, WE AIM TO IMPROVE CLINICAL GENETICS TO REDUCE THE UNCERTAINTIES FACED BY MANY FAMILIES WHO STRUGGLE WITH RARE GENETIC DISORDERS.
GREG COOPER, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
IDENTIFYING MORE EFFECTIVE TREATMENT PATHWAYS Once a genetic diagnosis is made, scientists can dive deeper into developmental pathways disrupted by the genetic variation to help identify potential therapeutics to improve the individual’s quality of life. Dr. Kodani specializes in this process of understanding the genetics of brain development and the role played by disease- associated genetic changes. Working with clinicians across the country to identify a genetic diagnosis for patients, Dr. Kodani then focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental disease to identify specific treatment pathways that can be targeted by existing medications, therapies, or dietary recommendations. Continuing research he started during his time at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Dr. Kodani’s lab focuses on finding treatments that may improve the quality of life for children who struggle with rare neurodevelopmental disorders.
ANDREW KODANI, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
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GENETICS AND GENOMICS OFFER US AN INCREDIBLE OPPORTUNITY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND WHAT’S GOING ON UNDER THE SURFACE OF A CHILD’S DIAGNOSIS. BY COMBINING THOSE FIELDS WITH CELLULAR BIOLOGY, MY LAB AND I ARE ABLE TO IDENTIFY WAYS TO IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR CHILDREN WHO HAVE SPENT YEARS SEARCHING FOR SOLUTIONS. WE BELIEVE EVERY CHILD DESERVES A HAPPY CHILDHOOD, AND WHILE WE CAN’T RESEARCH EVERY DISORDER, OUR WORK ENSURES FAMILIES DON’T HAVE TO FACE THESE DISEASES ALONE.
Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine
IMPROVING PERSONALIZED MEDICINE WITH GENOMICS At the Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine , life-changing answers that were previously hidden away in patients’ DNA are found. From children struggling with undiagnosed disease to adults who are seeking more personalized healthcare, the medical geneticist and genetic counselors at Smith Family Clinic have improved the lives of patients of all ages by uncovering critical genetic information that could be responsible for disease. The Clinic is rapidly growing to meet our community’s healthcare needs, providing services ranging from rare disease diagnosis to genetic testing that can optimize a patient’s prescriptions, anticipate future risk for disease, and even determine whether parents have an increased risk of passing on a genetic condition to their children.
SUPPORTING EQUAL ACCESS TO GENETIC SERVICES The Smith Family Clinic serves as Alabama Children’s Rehabilitation Services (CRS) the only genetics clinic in the state, allowing the clinic team to care for children facing undiagnosed disease whose families face financial barriers. The Hero Fund , a need-based resource funded by philanthropy, helps patients of all ages offset testing and appointment fees. At three years old, Jovi Cox, a CRS patient served by the Smith Family Clinic, received an unprecedented diagnosis. She is the youngest person in the world to be diagnosed with Usher Syndrome Type IV, a genetic
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GENETIC TESTING ALLOWS US TO LOOK INTO A PATIENT’S PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE TO BETTER TREAT DISEASE, PROACTIVELY MANAGE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING, AND EQUIP PATIENTS TO MAKE MORE INFORMED HEALTHCARE DECISIONS. PHILANTHROPY PLAYS A VITAL ROLE IN MAKING IT POSSIBLE
MEAGAN COCHRAN, MS, CGC DIRECTOR FOR THE SMITH FAMILY CLINIC FOR GENOMIC MEDICINE
FOR US TO OFFER THESE IMPORTANT SERVICES TO ALL WHO NEED THEM.
Jovi Cox and family
YEAR-OVER-YEAR INCREASE IN PATIENTS SERVED MEDICAL PROVIDERS WHO REFERRED PATIENTS SMITH FAMILY CLINIC FOR GENOMIC MEDICINE BY THE NUMBERS 47% 33 200 + ALABAMA COUNTIES SERVED
condition that causes hearing and vision loss but does not usually present until much later in life. Equipped with a diagnosis, Jovi’s family is helping her prepare for a possible future loss in hearing and vision by ensuring she has access to adapted treatments and therapy. Jovi is learning Braille and American Sign Language before she even loses her eyesight or experiences more severe hearing loss. “We’re thankful we found out so early about Jovi’s diagnosis. Because of genetic testing, we know that we have everything we need to help her in life.” —Kate Cox, Jovi’s mother
Cancer
Faculty Investigator Sara Cooper, PhD , and her research team specialize in uncovering the genetic factors that contribute to various cancers, including those affecting the breast, ovaries, pancreas, and colon. By studying how ovarian cancer cells and immune cells interact in a cell culture dish, Dr. Cooper’s lab is learning how ovarian cancer tumors hide from our body’s immune defenses. This work will lead to a model that will help cancer researchers everywhere understand the critical relationship between cancer cells and our bodies. The goal is to identify more targeted treatments for patients whose cancer has stopped responding to chemotherapy. Dr. Cooper and her team have also made strides toward identifying previously unknown genetic variants for breast cancer. As part of a pilot study with Clearview Cancer Institute , Dr. Cooper’s team has sequenced genomes from patients with a strong family history of cancer at a young age, who do not have a known genetic cause for their cancer. The study has yielded promising results, potentially leading to the identification of new cancer genes that can be targeted in further research. IDENTIFYING TARGETED TREATMENTS
INFORMATION IS POWER INITIATIVE BY THE NUMBERS 6700 52% 62%
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GENOMICS IS A CRITICAL LENS THROUGH WHICH TO STUDY CANCER. IT ALLOWS US TO UNDERSTAND THE GENETIC CONTRIBUTIONS TO METASTATIC AND TREATMENT-RESISTANT CANCER. IT IS ALSO A TOOL TO HELP PREDICT HOW PATIENTS RESPOND TO EXISTING TREATMENT METHODS AND TO IDENTIFY THE BEST STRATEGIES TO DEVELOP NEW TREATMENTS.
SARA COOPER, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
IMPROVING ACCESS TO GENETIC TESTING FOR CANCER RISK
HudsonAlpha’s Information is Power initiative builds hope and saves lives by making genetic testing for cancer risk accessible across Alabama. The test checks for over 28 gene mutations known to increase cancer risk, including the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, to inform participants of their risk for developing breast, ovarian, colon, prostate, pancreatic, and endometrial cancers. The Information is Power initiative has expanded into underrepresented and rural communities across Alabama
to serve those who often face higher cancer risks, as well as significant barriers to access testing. The project, called Access Matters, is fueled by funding from Russel Hill Cancer Foundation, the Alabama Power Foundation, Racial Equity Fund of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville, Daniel Foundation, Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and the Links Inc. of Greater Huntsville to bring the bene- fits of cancer prevention and early detection to more people, tripling minority participation in Information is Power .
PARTICIPANTS TOOK THE INFORMATION IS POWER TEST AND LEARNED THEIR CANCER RISK OF PEOPLE WHO RECEIVED A POSITIVE RESULT FOR CANCER RISK HAD NO STRONG HISTORY OF CANCER IN THEIR FAMILY AND LIKELY WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN OFFERED TESTING AT THEIR PHYSICIAN’S OFFICE OF TESTS ADMINISTERED HAVE BEEN FREE. THE OTHER 38% HAVE BEEN OFFERED AT A REDUCED COST
Genomics for food security and crop improvement
Shifting weather patterns, rising temperatures, and the spread of pests and diseases are putting crops at risk, threat- ening the livelihoods of millions of people and leading to global hunger. Josh Clevenger, PhD , and Alex Harkess, PhD , HudsonAlpha Faculty Investigators, are harnessing plant genomics to pinpoint genes linked to beneficial traits that can enhance plants’ resilience. Their research is improving key crops that are vital to sustaining our global food supply. THE LOCAL AND GLOBAL IMPACT OF PEANUT RESEARCH Because peanuts are an excellent source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, they are a nutritional and econom- ic lifeline for over a billion people worldwide, especially in regions of Africa, Asia, and South America. This global crop generates billions of dollars annually and supports the liveli- hoods of small family farms to multinational corporations. Like many crops, peanuts are vulnerable to pests, drought, and disease, farmers sometimes lose entire harvests and go without vitally needed income. For communities that rely on peanuts as a main food source, a peanut short- age or infected harvests can be life-threatening.
By identifying genetic markers for traits like disease resis- tance and higher yields, Dr. Clevenger and his team are helping to develop new peanut varieties that are better equipped to withstand changing environmental conditions and pests. Through their work with Alabama peanut farm- ers through HudsonAlpha Wiregrass and global partner- ships such as the Groundnut Improvement Network of Africa (GINA), Dr. Clevenger’s team is revolutionizing the global peanut industry and ensuring breeders from Alabama to Africa and Australia have access to genomic tools that are essential for success.
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AS OUR GLOBAL POPULATION GROWS, MILLIONS OF FAMILIES STRUGGLE WITH FOOD INSECURITY. SECURING THE GLOBAL PEANUT CROP THROUGH PLANT GENOMICS IS AN IMPORTANT STEP IN REDUCING HUNGER AND EMPOWERS US TO FIND BREAKTHROUGHS THAT LEAD TO GROWING MORE FOOD TO FEED MORE PEOPLE.
JOSH CLEVENGER, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
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PLANT REPRODUCTION IS AT THE CENTER OF EVERY MAJOR FOOD INDUSTRY AROUND THE WORLD, AND UNDERSTANDING ITS GENETIC UNDERPINNINGS CAN LEAD TO SIGNIFICANT BREAKTHROUGHS. IN THE CASES OF APPLES AND PEARS, WE ARE COLLABORATIVELY USING GENOMICS TO OPTIMIZE WHEN GROWERS SHOULD PICK FRUIT, ULTIMATELY PRODUCING SIGNIFICANTLY LESS FOOD WASTE.
ALEX HARKESS, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
GROWING BETTER PRODUCE WITH FEWER RESOURCES
Cosmic Crisp apple varieties, both of which are economically significant crops in the United States. These plants were studied through the American Campus Tree Genomes initiative, a grant-funded project where Dr. Harkess’ lab works with universities nationwide to give undergraduate students access to cutting-edge bioinformatics training and research experience. The research conducted on the d’Anjou pear and Cosmic Crisp apple produced high-quality genome assem- blies, offering farmers and breeders valuable insights into breeding strategies. By accessing this information, breeders can optimize crop yields, reduce food waste, and use fewer resources to deliver fresher, higher-quality produce to market.
Dr. Harkess and his lab study plant flowering and repro- duction, key processes responsible for most of the food we eat. By exploring the genetics that drive plant reproduction, Dr. Harkess aims to enhance agricultural productivity, grow crops that yield greater quantities of more nutritious food, and increase our ability to feed a growing global population. Leveraging cutting-edge genome sequencing capabilities at HudsonAlpha, Dr. Harkess’s lab is identifying the genetic factors responsible for key reproductive traits, opening doors to improving crop species through breeding and biotechnol- ogy. The lab applied their expertise to the d’Anjou pear and
THIS IMPORTANT WORK WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT HUDSONALPHA’S KATHY L. CHAN GREENHOUSE, A CUTTING-EDGE WORKING LABORATORY FOR OUR PLANT SCIENTISTS THAT ALLOWS THEM TO GROW, STUDY, AND ANALYZE RESEARCH PLANTS ALL IN THE SAME FACILITY.
Genomics for sustainability The need for sustainable agricultural solutions has never been greater, given our rapidly changing climate and growing pressure on natural resources. At HudsonAlpha, our researchers apply their expertise in plant genomics to transform agriculture and industry, bringing innovative, plant-based products to market and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Faculty Investigators Jane Grimwood, PhD , Jeremy Schmutz , and Kankshita Swaminathan, PhD , are at the forefront of global efforts to make our world a more sustainable and cleaner place. IMPROVING THE GLOBAL TEXTILE INDUSTRY, ONE GENOME AT A TIME Scientists at the HudsonAlpha Genome Sequencing Center, led by Jeremy Schmutz and Jane Grimwood, PhD, made major advancements for the global textile industry by developing high-quality reference genomes for three important cotton varieties. This resource allows breeders and farmers to selectively breed cotton
for more economically important traits like improved fiber quality while using fewer resources than traditional breeding methods. This breakthrough not only saves time but also reduces the tremendous cost to breeders and growers, as hundreds of thousands of cotton samples are traditionally needed to make selections based on desirable traits. By lead- ing to the production of better cotton with fewer resources, cotton breeders and farmers can shape a more sustainable textile industry.
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GENOMICS-DRIVEN BREEDING HAS AN ENORMOUS IMPACT ON BREEDERS, GROWERS, AND FARMERS, AND MARKS AN IMPORTANT STEP IN REDUCING THE TEXTILE INDUSTRY’S HEAVY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT. FINDINGS LIKE THESE WILL REAP BENEFITS FOR GENERATIONS TO COME.
JEREMY SCHMUTZ FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
JANE GRIMWOOD, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
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WE ARE EXCITED TO USE OUR SCIENTIFIC EXPERTISE TO TACKLE SOME OF THE WORLD’S MOST IMPORTANT CHALLENGES. GENOMICS IS A POWERFUL TOOL THAT ALLOWS US TO BETTER UNDERSTAND A PLANT’S GENOME AND HOW IT CAN BE ENHANCED TO REPLACE FOSSIL FUEL-BASED PRODUCTS, REDUCE WASTE, AND CREATE ENVIRON- MENTALLY AND FINANCIALLY SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIES.
KANKSHITA SWAMINATHAN, PHD FACULTY INVESTIGATOR
REDUCING THE CARBON FOOTPRINT OF CONSTRUCTION AND CONSUMER GOODS Dr. Swaminathan and her team, along with Jeremy Schmutz from the HudsonAlpha Genome Sequencing Center and Sam Jackson, PhD, Program Director, lead the BRIDGES (Biobased Rural Initiative for Biomass Growth and Economic Security) to create plant-based, carbon- neutral products. Perennial grasses such as miscanthus and switchgrass are great candidates for plant-based products because they require few resources to grow and can thrive in North
American environments where most other plants cannot. By unlocking the hidden potential in their DNA, our researchers are optimizing these grasses for use in sustainable construction materials, automotive components, and consumer goods such as disposable food containers. In addition to improving the grasses, the team is work- ing with more than seventy partners across the Southeast, such as Auburn University and University of Tennessee, as well as industry stakeholders like Volkswagen, FedEx, and many other manufacturers and farmers, to create jobs and empower local communities to contribute to communities across the South.
HudsonAlpha Wiregrass Extending HudsonAlpha’s mission of genomic research, STEM education, and economic development into Alabama’s Wiregrass region, HudsonAlpha Wiregrass has seen tremendous growth over the last year.
RESEARCH PEANUTS PLANTED IN WIREGRASS TEST FIELDS Half of our country’s peanut crop is grown, harvested, and processed in Alabama’s Wiregrass region. Peanuts are important sources of protein, oil, and nutritious snacks — safeguarding this important crop and the livelihoods that depend on it is vital in the wake of a changing climate. Josh Clevenger, PhD , HudsonAlpha Faculty Investigator, and his team of researchers have made major strides in using genomics to create a new peanut breed developed specifically for the Wiregrass region. After two years of identifying economically desirable traits in the peanut’s genome and breeding peanuts to favor those traits, the team has planted peanuts in local research fields to test this emerging peanut variety.
ESTABLISHING THE WIREGRASS AS AN AGTECH INNOVATION HUB Over the last year, the economic development team at HudsonAlpha Wiregrass has focused on attracting, retaining, and supporting companies in the fields of agriculture and technology in the Wiregrass area. By building relationships and putting in place programs to support local innovators, HudsonAlpha is propelling the Wiregrass to become an important Southeastern hub for agtech, discovery, and progress.
BREAKING GROUND ON THE WIREGRASS INNOVATION CENTER Last spring, the City of Dothan and HudsonAlpha broke ground for the Wiregrass Innovation Center. The center will be a space for hands-on training, learning, and engage- ment of agtech innovation. Entrepreneurs working from the center will have a home where they can propel their businesses forward while providing job opportunities for local people, creating a space where ideas grow and shaping visionaries who will impact the future of the Wiregrass.
Future home of the Wiregrass Innovation Center.
HUDSONALPHA STEM LEARNING PROGRAMS EXPANDING INTO WIREGRASS SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES
The Educational Outreach team also brought a community staple from HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology in Huntsville, Alabama and launched summer camps (CODE of Life and Genes & Greens) for middle and high school students for the first summer in the Wiregrass area. Offering hands-on opportunities to work in a lab and learn more about genetics and genomics, these camps enhanced STEM education in the Wiregrass and gave students insights into STEM careers. In honor of National DNA Day on April 25, 2024 HudsonAlpha also visited Dothan City elementary schools to lead what was possibly the largest DNA extraction to date. DNA EXTRACTIONS 700 + THIRD GRADERS ENGAGED IN
As part of that emerging peanut variety, Kelly East, HudsonAlpha Vice President for Educational Outreach, and her team have worked with local high schools across the region to engage students in growing the peanut plants and analyzing their genetic information. Over the last two years, over 500 students have participated in the project, gaining marketable lab and STEM skills.
PART IN THE FUN 10
ELEMENTARY WIREGRASS AREA SCHOOLS TOOK
Transformative technology Cutting-edge tools drive discovery. Technological advances are a driver for success, accelerating discovery and reducing the time it takes for our researchers to make a real-world impact. Because technology in genomics is rapidly advancing, HudsonAlpha is committed to having the most updated tools and equipment.
In 2024, donor support made possible the establishment of the Bio-Cybersecurity Lab and Security Enclave , as well as the purchase of a powerful confocal microscope and a new
PacBio® long-read Revio® DNA sequencer. BIO-CYBERSECURITY LAB AND SECURITY ENCLAVE
Biotech and genomics involve tremendous volumes of digital data that must be protected to safeguard individual privacy and intellectual property. It is also crucial to ensure that future generations of the cybersecurity workforce are properly trained in securing genomic data. To address these needs, HudsonAlpha launched the Bio-Cybersecurity Lab and Security Enclave, a program that secures the Institute’s own data while partnering with other cybersecurity centers of excellence to help train and support students in cybersecurity. The Bio-Cybersecurity Lab and Security Enclave were made possible by a generous gift from the Mahbubani family and the EKTA Foundation . HudsonAlpha is grateful for the family’s ongoing support of HudsonAlpha’s most innovative and forward-thinking programs.
“The lab will secure HudsonAlpha’s research capabilities, its educational programs, and its partnerships with organizations and businesses across the country while taking bio-cybersecurity to another level. It will positively impact so many elements of HudsonAlpha’s mission and operations.” —Ashok and Amrita Mahbubani
PACBIO REVIO This powerful machine boosts our researchers’ capacity to sequence DNA through the power of long-read sequenc- ing. Providing 15 times more data at a lower cost than older sequencers, the Revio® is accelerating breakthroughs in HudsonAlpha’s research in crop improvement, food security, and childhood neurodevelopmental diseases. The purchase of the Revio® was partly supported by the Innovation Fund, a donor-funded pool of resourc- es that supports innovative programs and promising emerging projects at HudsonAlpha. Thank you to all who contributed to the Innovation Fund to make important purchases like these possible.
CONFOCAL MICROSCOPE The ability to capture high-quality, precise
imagery allows HudsonAlpha’s researchers to gain even deeper insight into gene expression within cells. This technology is critical for our scientists working on better understanding the molecular pathways involved in pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders and for ongoing work in cancer genomics to better understand the interac- tion between chemoresistant tumor biology and the body’s immune system. This confocal microscope was partially funded by the estate of Sue and Roy Nichols . We are tremendously grateful to the Nichols family for their enduring support.
Educational Outreach
TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF STEM LEADERS HudsonAlpha’s Educational Outreach programs provided engaging STEM learning opportunities to more than 1.6 million students, educators, and members of the public over the 2023-2024 academic year.
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AT HUDSONALPHA, WE WORK HARD TO MAKE BREAKTHROUGHS THAT SOLVE THE IMPORTANT CHALLENGES OUR WORLD FACES. THE GENERATIONS THAT COME AFTER US WILL FOLLOW IN OUR FOOTSTEPS TO CONTINUE THIS IMPORTANT WORK. MY TEAM AND I ARE EXCITED TO HELP LAY THE PATH TOMORROW’S STEM LEADERS WILL WALK ON BY EQUIPPING THEM WITH THE TOOLS AND KNOWLEDGE THEY NEED TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
KELLY EAST VICE PRESIDENT FOR EDUCATIONAL OUTREACH
INSPIRING A LOVE OF STEM AT ALL AGES From field trips to summer camps and after-school programs, HudsonAlpha offers educational experiences that enhance middle and high school students’ STEM proficiencies and empower kids to develop a love for science. Because of these opportunities, students gain the confidence to dream big about their future careers. Valuable training opportunities are also available to undergraduate and graduate students on HudsonAlpha’s campus. Yearlong internships are available to students from underrepresented backgrounds through the BRIDGES, AOMA and LABS education programs. The BioTrain summer internship program welcomes students from across Alabama to work in labs, classrooms, and offices on the HudsonAlpha biotech campus. In 2024, donor support made it possible for our student experiences to reach over 1,900 middle and high school students from over 100 schools, and over 630 undergraduate and graduate students.
BIOTECH CAREER DAY In celebration of National DNA Day in April, 11th and 12th grade students from across Madison County came to HudsonAlpha’s cam- pus for our second DNA in Biotech career day. This year, students spent the day engaged in hands-on activities and seminars by STEM professionals across three important areas of research at Hudson- Alpha: neuroscience, cancer, and agricultural science. These tracks allowed students to explore their specific interests and discover the array of career opportunities available in each field. We are grateful for Redstone Federal Credit Union ’s support in making this event possible for a second year!
SUMMER OF STEM The 2024 Summer of STEM program ranged from summer camps for middle and high school students, to intern- ships for undergraduate and graduate students, and professional development for science educators. Over the course of the summer, HudsonAlpha hosted hundreds of learners on campus who represented 23 counties in Alabama and seven states. HudsonAlpha is in- credibly grateful to the many sponsors who helped make the 2024 Summer of STEM a success!
“Before I came to HudsonAlpha’s Code of Life summer camp, I didn’t feel strong in science and didn’t understand DNA. This camp boosted my confidence in science and I feel like I can succeed now.”
— Ali, 7th grade summer camper
EVENT SERIES
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO SUPPORTED THESE EVENTS BY ATTENDING, SPONSORING, OR DONATING! HudsonAlpha was honored to host our 2024 Event Series, welcoming 4,282 people to one or more events last year! The 2024 HudsonAlpha Event Series ranged from our community-favorite events like Spring Benefit, the Memory and Mobility Program update, and the Tie The Ribbons luncheon, to our HudsonAlpha U public education talks, and free seminars such as Dr. Neil Lamb’s annual update and a presentation by Dr. Harold Varmus, Nobel Prize Laureate.
HudsonAlpha U Nights
An Update from Dr. Neil Lamb
Tie the Ribbons $216,164 Raised for breast and ovarian cancer research program
Spring Benefit $264,754 Raised for the Kathy L. Chan Greenhouse
Double Helix Dash $42,582 Raised for childhood genetic disorder research and for the Smith Family Clinic for Genomic Medicine (For the first time in HudsonAlpha history, the 2024 Double Helix Dash was canceled due to adverse weather conditions. We are looking forward to the 2025 Double Helix Dash and hope for fairer weather!)
Nobel Laureate Harold Varmus Event
2025 EVENT SERIES FOR INFORMATION ABOUT 2025 EVENTS, VISIT HUDSONALPHA.ORG/EVENT-SERIES
Lifetime giving
LUMINARY $1,000,000 +
VISIONARY $100,000 + ADTRAN Alabama Farmers Agricultural Foundation Alabama Power Foundation Pam and Joe Alexander ALFA Mutual Insurance ALS Association Alzheimer’s Association American Chestnut Foundation American Dahlia Society Anonymous James Cecil and Margaret G. Ashburn Foundation Beard Young Family Foundation Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP - Huntsville
Ona and John Hamilton Mei Lu and Jian Han Peg and George Heeschen Intrepid, LLC iRepertoire Cindy and Richard Jackson Carole and Buddy Jones The Land Institute Leidos Terry and Herb Lewis Jane K. Lowe Charitable Foundation Margaret and Hugh Mackie Madison County Commission Shirley and George McCrary Ginney and Foster McDonald Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Muscular Dystrophy Association Estate of Ruth and Foster Oliver Peanut Research Foundation Beth and Hank Pearce Quarterbacking Children’s Health Foundation Redstone Federal Credit Union Rosie’s Mexican Cantina Russel Hill Cancer Foundation W.F. Sanders Lucinda and Marshall Schreeder ServisFirst Bank Nancy and Ray Sheppard Patsy and John Shields Simons Foundation Sangeeta and Ashok Singhal Janice Smith St. Baldrick’s Foundation Synovus Financial Corporation Cheryl Fox Taylor and Phillip Rogers Taylor Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc Carol and Jim Tevepaugh Susy and Bob Thurber Toyota Alabama Irma and Jack Tuder
Twickenham Advisors Washington Tree Fruit
Research Commission
Wayne, Luanne, and
Alpha Foundation, Inc Anonymous
Peri Widener Fund for the Study of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Sheryl and Marc Bendickson Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Patti and Louis Breland Sue and Randy Campbell Kathy and Tony Chan CHDI Foundation Inc Lillian and Jack T. Clift Barbara and Tim Fisk Lynn and Jim Hudson Leo Fund Mike Loya Mars Wrigley Helen and Lonnie McMillian Peter Pratt Family Fund Pritzker Philanthropic Fund Eloise and Bill Propst Emily and Steve Robertson Clay Smith Linda J. Smith Mark C. Smith Family Foundation Loretta Purdy Spencer CHAIRMAN $500,000 + Boeing Company Jurenko Foundation Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation Inc Lilly Fund The Mahbubani Family - EKTA Foundation Sue and Roy Nichols
Leslie and Danny Windham
INNOVATOR $25,000 + Alabama Media Group Alabama Peanut Producers Association Cynthia and Rey Almodóvar Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity - UAH Elaine and Earl Alspach American Association for Cancer Research American Cancer Society - Huntsville American Parkinson’s Disease Association Anglin Reichmann Armstrong, PC Aviagen North America Margaret and Walter Batson BBVA Compass Foundation Sylvia and Charles Betts Penny and Jay Billings Tami and Jim Bolte Traci and Steve Breland Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation Charlie Brown Carole and Tom Bryant Burnett-Nickelson Family Fund
Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC Breast Cancer Research Toni and Karl Breland BrightFocus Foundation Chris Brown
Foundation of Alabama
Elaine and Chris Brunhoeber James R. and Voncille J. Cleary Fund for Neurological Research Marie and P. Michael Cole Lyn and John Cook, Jr. Cotton Incorporated Fred Craves Daniel Foundation of Alabama Edna and Jerry Deener Estate of Anthony DiCerbo EBSCO Community Impact Estate of Nola and Frank J. Eiser Fuqua & Partners Architects, PC
Donna and Van Cancel Caring Foundation of
Regions Bank Brenda Tapp Jean Wessel Templeton
GATR Technologies Cindy and Ron Gray Susan and Tom Griffith Patricia and Leroy Hair
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Century Automotive Group
WE EXTEND OUR DEEPEST THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS, CORPORATIONS, AND FOUNDATIONS FOR THEIR EXTRAORDINARY GENEROSITY. THESE DONORS HAVE CUMULATIVE LIFETIME GIVING OF $10,000+ IN CONTRIBUTIONS AND PLANNED GIFTS.
CFD Research Corporation City of Huntsville, Alabama Frances and Wes Clayton Clearview Cancer Institute Johanna Cleary Voncille Cleary Sarah Green and Lynn Collyar COLSA Corporation Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville’s Compass Society Bud Cramer Xan and Tim Curran Paula Cushman Margaret and David D’Amico Danielle and Deke Damson Damson Automotive Leta and Mike DeMaioribus DESE Research, Inc Dimesol Discovery Life Sciences Dove Family Foundation Sharon Doviet and Chris Russell Melissa and Mike Edwards Lue and Bill English Cyril and Nell Evers Advised Fund Yulia and Mark Faist Nancy and Jerry Fishman Dick Fountain Fraternal Order of Eagles Sarah and Carl Gessler Kathy and Steve Gilder Julie and Kevin Gold Goldman Sachs Mike & Gillian Goodrich Foundation Google Fiber Cindy and Gary Griner Kathy Hart Jane Hays Hexagon Andi and Steve Hill Jane and Brian Hinson Holle Family Foundation Sandy and Bob Hovde
Wells Fargo Wells Fargo Foundation Pamela Barratt White Diane Wick Christine and Mike Wicks Willbrook Solutions, Inc Quatina M. Wolaver Foundation of Hope Wendy Yang and Rick Myers CHAMPION $10,000 + 3M Linda and Rob Akenhead Alliance Cancer Care Anonymous Nancy and David Archuleta Raechel Armstrong and Rebecca Moore AUM Charitable Foundation Available Plastics, Inc Jenny and Tim Bachmann Bahwan CyberTek, Inc Phylis and Bob Baron BBVA Compass Lynne Berry Bill Penney Toyota Estate of Sarah Bounds Bourn Family Charitable Fund Kakki and J. R. Brooks Kay and Robert Brotherton Janet and David Brown Bryant Bank Cindy and Steve Burcham Doris Burwell Foundation Abigail and Ricky Byrn C&A Printing, LLC Glynda Cavalcanti CenterState Bank Cepeda Systems & Software Analysis, Inc Alice Chenault and Milton Harris
Jennie and Jimmy Hudson Cynthia and Jim Hughes Huntsville Hospital Huntsville Tractor & Equipment Illumina, Inc IronMountain Solutions, Inc ISSAC Libby and Ray Jones Kailos Genetics, Inc Sarah Lauren and Andy Kattos Keel Point, LLC Pennie and Tom Keene - Keene Group at Morgan Stanley Hope Kinch Olin B. King Charitable Fund Wallace Kirkpatrick Kord Technologies, Inc Cynthia and Neil Lamb Alice and Frederick Lanier Lanier Ford Shaver & Payne, P.C. Ann Livingston Lockheed Martin Corporation Longview Financial Advisors, Inc Sophie and Mark Mantooth Ben May Charitable Trust Maynard Nexsen Christel and George McCanless Jean and Richard “Mac” McCrady Ann and Wayne McDonald Meta Elizabeth and Michael Morard Nancy Moss Family National Defense Industrial Association Nektar Therapeutics Northrop Grumman Corporation Nucor Steel Decatur, LLC Cary Page Betsy and Peter Lowe Lyndhurst Foundation
Partesotti-Siniard
Memorial Fund
Barbara Paul and
Tom Hickerson Pearce Construction Company Phi Gamma Delta of MIT Kelli and Brian Pollock Evanthia and Alex Pols Pretium Valuation Group, LLC Prevent Cancer Foundation Mary Lee and Lee Prout Paige and Jeff Prozan Heather and Dale Qualls Brenda and Bill Roark Nancy M. Rohr Catherine and Arthur Rollins Patricia Ryan Nancy and Gary Saliba Jean and Bill Salter Angela and Timo Sandritter Amanda and Rob Seitz Serina Therapeutics, Inc Leslie and Patrick Shields Betty and Bill Sims Susan and Tommy Siniard Allison and Josh Solomon Solve ME/CFS Initiative Susan and Bill Sommers Mark Spencer Sharon and Rick Suever System Dynamics International, Inc Donna and Howard Thrailkill Torch Technologies, Inc Treasury Partners United Community Bank Sally Upchurch Valent Group Nancy and Richard Van Valkenburgh Van Valkenburgh & Wilkinson, REALTORS® Vulcan Materials Company Foundation Gus Weisler Richard Saperstein Pat and Gene Sapp
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
City of Decatur, Alabama City of Madison, Alabama Elaine and Mitch Coley Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville’s Racial Equity Fund Claudia Conn Fay and John Copeland Corporate Dining Concepts Crestwood Medical Center Philip Crosby Vella Dailey Butch and Jerry Damson Claudia and Jim Davis deciBel Research Helen and Lynn Deibler Deloitte Consulting, LLP Ann Denbo Digium, Inc Kristine and Clint Doiron Martha Dolan Kathleen and Phil Dotts Eurofins Diatherix Barbara Eyestone Peggy and Ray Fambrough Mary Alice and Emerson Fann Ellen and Vincent Forlenza Freedom Real Estate & Capital, LLC Eve Garriott GFWC du Midi Patti and John Gipson Margaret and Jack Gleason Glen Research Corporation Nancy and Gene Goldman Parker Griffith Family Jane Grimwood and Jeremy Schmutz Clare and Mike Grisham Laura Jo and George Hamilton Lori and Paul Handley Unsuk Harper-Poggio and Enrico Poggio Lucia and Sam Eidt Jency Eldridge and John McCoy ERC
Linda and Norm Harris Dorcas Harris and Dick Reeves Elizabeth and Blake Herrin Hewlett-Packard Hinson & Hinson, PC HKSC foundation Christy and Lee Hoekenschnieder Roslyn Honan Joanne Horn Frances Huffman Mary and Cutter Hughes IMUNON Karen and Paul Israel J. Smith Lanier & Co Coy Jackson Chris and Bill Johnson Mary Susan and Jack Johnson Johnson Partners, Inc - McDonald’s Vicki and Rich Kretzschmar Amanda and Brandon Kruse Jack and Jean Lee Family Trust Leo Law Firm, LLC Lexus of Huntsville Lilies of the Valley Judy and Jim Link Madelene Loftin Lowry Family Foundation Cindi and Bob Ludwig Kathy and Scott Ludwig Thomas Main Family Fund D.D. Martin Brian Mathews Eugenia and Bill McCoy Rosemary and Dennis McMahan Lynn and Sam McManus Liz and Jim Kennedy Ruth and Robert Key
Morgan County Legislative Office Delegation Morgan County Schools Morgan Stanley - The Shields Group Michele and Lance Morris National Space Club - Huntsville The Orthopaedic Center Susan Ozment Caroline Page Parkinson’s Support Group of Huntsville, Inc Jean and Jerre Penney Lois and Bill Pope Kelli Powers Lydia and Taylor Pursell Radiance Technologies, Inc Joyce Rehfeld Renasant Bank Paula Renfroe Dr. and Mrs. Bradley S. Rice Reba and Jim Rogers Sherri and David Romanoff Mary and Lester Ross Carolyn Russo and Greg Barsh Saliba Asset Management Samples Properties, Inc Rebecca and Thomas Satterfield Savant Wealth Management Mike Schmitz Marie and Bill Schneider Schoel Engineering Garrett and Marshall Schreeder, Jr. Sims Family ALS Research Advised Fund Karen and James Smelser Rosalie Smith Austin Stephens Connie and Rusty Stephenson Amanda Stokes System, Studies & Simulation, Inc Janie Tapp Kathi and Norm Tew
Amy Thornton Brenda and Dick Titus Trigon Cyber, Inc Troy 7, Inc TSA, Inc Mike Turner UAH College of Business UAH College of Science UBS Financial Services, Inc Venturi, Inc Warren Averett, LLC Wayne’s Acoustical and Drywall, Inc Juliet and Carter Wells Debbie and Larry West Lia and Ray White Judy and Sidney White
Andy Whitehead Window World
McWane Foundation Mevatec Foundation Catherine and Ken Montgomery Jana and Mike Moody Connie and Jerry Moore
GIFTS OF ALL LEVELS ENABLE US TO CONTINUE BUILDING MOMENTUM, MAKING INCREDIBLE PROGRESS IN OUR MISSION. DONORS WHO MAKE ANNUAL GIFTS OF $1,000 AND ABOVE ARE INCLUDED IN THE GENOME CIRCLE, HUDSONALPHA’S MAJOR GIVING PROGRAM. ALL GENOME CIRCLE MEMBERS ARE ALSO RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR GENEROSITY ON THE SOCIETY OF GIVING WALL IN THE ATRIUM OF HUDSONALPHA’S MAIN BUILDING.
Annual giving
VISIONARY $100,000 + ALFA Mutual Insurance Anonymous Marc Bendickson Breast Cancer Research CHAIRMAN $500,000 + Alpha Foundation, Inc Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Jurenko Foundation Mars Wrigley Pritzker Philanthropic Fund Brenda Tapp Foundation of Alabama Kathy and Tony Chan Lillian and Jack T. Clift Regions Bank Estate of Paula and W.F. Sanders Lucinda and Marshall Schreeder
Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC Burnett-Nickelson Family Fund Sue and Randy Campbell Caring Foundation of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Century Automotive Group Frances and Wes Clayton
American Dahlia Society American Parkinson’s Disease Association Beard Young Family Foundation Boeing Company Marie and P. Michael Cole Cotton Incorporated Edna and Jerry Deener Dove Family Foundation Fuqua & Partners Architects, PC Huntsville Tractor & Equipment Sarah Lauren and Andy Kattos Terry and Herb Lewis Margaret and Hugh Mackie The Mahbubani Family - EKTA Foundation Sophie and Mark Mantooth Muscular Dystrophy Association Cary Page Barbara Paul and Tom Hickerson Phi Gamma Delta of MIT Evanthia and Alex Pols Quarterbacking Children’s Health Foundation Brenda and Bill Roark Russel Hill Cancer Foundation Angela and Timo Sandritter Jean Wessel Templeton Carol and Jim Tevepaugh Irma and Jack Tuder Diane Wick
INNOVATING ALABAMA TAX CREDIT PROGRAM Our sincere appreciation goes to those listed below for their contributions to HudsonAlpha that support innovation programs and to the State of Alabama, as well as Innovate Alabama, for the creation and administration of the Innovating Alabama Tax Credit Program. ALFA Mutual Insurance Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Marie and P. Michael Cole Sharon Doviet and Chris Russell Fuqua & Partners Architects, PC Ruth and Robert Key Sophie and Mark Mantooth Pearce Construction Company Evanthia and Alex Pols Regions Bank Brenda and Bill Roark Angie and Timo Sandritter Garrett and Marshall Schreeder Jr. Lucinda and Marshall Schreeder Leslie and Danny Windham
Voncille Cleary Claudia Conn Lyn and John Cook, Jr. Paula Cushman Discovery Life Sciences Sharon Doviet and Chris Russell
EBSCO Community Impact Melissa and Mike Edwards Freedom Real Estate & Capital, LLC Google Fiber Susan and Tom Griffith Peg and George Heeschen Intrepid, LLC Ruth and Robert Key Olin B. King Charitable Fund Cynthia and Neil Lamb Alice and Frederick Lanier Jack and Jean Lee Family Trust Ann Livingston Ann and Wayne McDonald Merrill Lynch Wealth Management Meta Nucor Steel Decatur, LLC Peanut Research Foundation Pearce Construction Company Redstone Federal Credit Union Rosie’s Mexican Cantina
Loretta Purdy Spencer Washington Tree Fruit
Research Commission
INNOVATOR $25,000 +
CHAMPION $10,000 +
Alabama Farmers Agricultural Foundation Alabama Peanut Producers Association Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity - UAH ALS Association Alzheimer’s Association American Chestnut Foundation
Jean and Bill Salter Pat and Gene Sapp Mike Schmitz Garrett and Marshall Schreeder, Jr. Patsy and John Shields Janie Tapp Cheryl Fox Taylor Toyota Alabama
Elaine and Earl Alspach Anonymous James Cecil and Margaret G. Ashburn Foundation Margaret Batson Penny and Jay Billings Bradley Arant Boult Cummings, LLP - Huntsville
BENEFACTOR $1,000 + Twickenham Advisors Leslie and Danny Windham Quatina M. Wolaver Foundation of Hope Aero Thermo Technology, Inc Alabama Colon & Gastro, P.C. Alabama Humanities Alliance Alabama Media Group Alliance Cancer Care Jennifer Amis Susan and Sherwood Anderson Anglin Reichmann Armstrong, PC Anonymous Raechel Armstrong and Rebecca Moore Angie and Mulk Arora AUM Charitable Foundation Jenny and Tim Bachmann Bank Independent - Decatur Bank Independent - Huntsville Bankston Motor Homes Barbara Beebe Susan Benefield Eva and Barry Berman Lynne Berry ADTRAN Advanced Life Clinic Virginia and Walter Bouldin Bourn Family Charitable Fund Jerry Bowling Bobby Bradley and Charley Burruss Annie and Pete Brasseale Traci and Steve Breland Diane and Craig Brennan Bret Slaton Homes, Inc Sylvia and Charles Betts BioDynami Corporation Pat and Jim Blair BMSS Advisors & CPAs
Kakki and J. R. Brooks Kay Brotherton Charlie Brown Elaine and Chris Brunhoeber Carole and Tom Bryant Bryant Bank Robbie Burlison Doris Burwell Foundation Donna and Van Cancel Ann and Harold Carey Pat Carl Judy Case Marianne and Carl Case CFD Research Corporation Sue Chatham and Charles Ross Beth Clark Clearview Cancer Institute Johanna Cleary Kaia and Phoenix Clevenger Meagan and Nick Cochran Audrey and Paul Byrge Abigail and Rick Byrn Merle Campbell Elaine and Mitch Coley Nancy and Skipper Colin COLSA Corporation Clara Conley ConsultRXperts Fay and John Copeland Corporate Office Properties Trust Pam and Harvey Cotten CREEJ Crestwood Medical Center Cullman Lift Speciality, Inc Xan and Tim Curran Margaret and David D’Amico Claudia and Jim Davis DC BLOX Fred de Roode Lacey Dean Helen and Lynn Deibler Ann Denbo DESE Research, Inc Dillard’s, Inc Michael Dohrenwend Kristine and Clint Doiron
Martha Dolan Caroline Drummond Naomi DuBois Brenda Duda-Jarke
Sandy and Bob Hovde Jennie and Jimmy Hudson Lynn and Jim Hudson Frances Huffman Huntsville Hospital Huntsville Hospital Clinic for Breast Care Huntsville Hospital Corporate Wellness Huntsville Hospital Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Keller Williams Realty IronMountain Solutions, Inc Karen and Paul Israel Cindy and Richard Jackson Jacobs Norma Jensen Chris and Bill Johnson Mary Susan and Jack Johnson Nancy and Tony Jones Carole and Buddy Jones Keel Point, LLC Pennie and Tom Keene - Keene Group at Morgan Stanley Lydia and Thomas Keller Natalie and Adam Kelley Hope Kinch Shelbie King Jan and Stephen Kirkemier Claudia and Bill Klus Debra and Rodney Kreps Vicki and Rich Kretzschmar Mary and David Lamb Virginia Leahy Rosemary and Joe Lee Leidos Leo Law Firm, LLC Lewis Properties, LLC Lexus of Huntsville Limbo Neurological Consulting Huntsville Utilities Jennifer Hutchison iHeartMedia, Inc Innova Primary Care InTown Partners,
Gayle and Dwayne Duke Dunagan Yates & Alison Theresa and Mike Durboraw Kelly and Andrew East Lucia and Sam Eidt Janet and Derrel Emmerson Mary Alice and Emerson Fann Kerry and Joe Fehrenbach Financial Strategies Group, LLC Nancy and Jerry Fishman Barbara and Tim Fisk Fraternal Order of Eagles Eve Garriott Sarah and Carl Gessler Kathy and Steve Gilder Goldman Sachs Cynthia and Ronald Golub Sarah Green and Lynn Collyar Charlotte and Richard Gregory Parker Griffith Family Jane Grimwood and Jeremy Schmutz Clare and Mike Grisham Grounds Control of Huntsville, Inc Laura Jo and George Hamilton Ona and John Hamilton Lori and Paul Handley Unsuk Harper-Poggio and Enrico Poggio Dorcas Harris and Dick Reeves Kim and John Hartley Natalie and Darrin Hasley Elizabeth Haynes Elizabeth and Blake Herrin Bonnie and Steve Hettinger Hexagon Hinson & Hinson, PC Christy and Lee Hoekenschnieder Joanne Horn Lynn and John Graves Cindy and Ron Gray
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