Center changes policy on grant applications to Duke foundation

Brief

Fred Hutchinson scientists may now apply for grants from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation due to a recent change in center policy. The foundation distributes about $65 million per year with one-third of their funds going to medical research, in the areas of cancer, AIDS, blood disorders, sickle cell anemia and cardiovascular disease. The foundation also has a Distinguished Clinical Scientist Award, which provides grants of up to $1.5 million over five to seven years.

Previously, the center did not allow faculty to submit grants to the foundation because the family involved became wealthy through its involvement with the sale of tobacco products. However, the foundation is independent of any company and its endowment has no tobacco investments. Established in 1996, its mission is to improve the quality of people's lives. At the urging of several faculty members, the center's scientific leadership reexamined its policy and decided to allow investigators to apply for these funds, subject to the same restrictions that apply to all foundation proposals.

"It can be argued that this is the best endproduct of tobacco money, inasmuch as it is now being used to improve rather than impair health, comparable to the way the national tobacco settlement money is used," said Peggy Means, senior vice president.

Any questions regarding this policy change should be directed to Myra Tanita, chief operating officer.

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