Gift to Endow Directorship of Purdue Institute

The gift was made by John Krenicki Jr. and his wife

A multi-million dollar gift to the newly-established Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience will endow the institute’s directorship. The gift was provided by Purdue University alumnus John Krenicki Jr. and his wife, Donna.

The university says the institute aims to pursue "research to alleviate suffering associated with trauma, disease or disorders of the brain and nervous system." Purdue President Mitch Daniels says the gift enables the university to pursue the finest scientists available for the John and Donna Krenicki Directorship.

"We’ve been personally touched and keenly interested in this field and where it is headed for some time," said Krenicki. "We believe it is at the precipice of fast-paced advancement that will significantly improve human health. With its strengths in biological sciences, chemistry, engineering, computer science and a school of veterinary medicine, Purdue has all the underpinnings in place to be a leader in this space. We are proud to support this effort."

Purdue says the institute will promote research in four main areas: innovative technologies in brain and behavior; aging and neurodegeneration; neurotrauma and neuropathology; and development, genetics and neuropharmacology. The institute is supported by Purdue’s $250 million investment in life sciences.

The Krenicki’s donation was made as part of Purdue’s annual Day of Giving.