Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation | Spring 2026

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation | Spring 2026

Philanthropy in Service of Health

Decoding the Future of Medicine Clinical Trials Test Tomorrow’s Cures Fall Scholars Show Up With Hustle and Heart Transitioning Care Through Life's Stages

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT AND CEO Translational research is a phrase we use often.

But what does it mean, and how do Houston Methodist teams work to accelerate it? You might picture a highway that runs from a scientist’s “lightbulb moment” to a new therapy’s approval for general use. Along the way, the therapy must stop in the research lab, navigate the twists and turns of clinical trials, and survive a maze of regulatory reviews and approvals. Traditionally, this journey takes years or even decades.

At Houston Methodist, our goal is to expedite the process. Thanks to a gift from The Cockrell Foundation, we’re one step closer. By funding new training programs in the Cockrell Center for Advanced Therapeutics, the gift strengthens the core of an integrated research hub that includes state-of-the-art research facilities, onsite cell therapeutics manufacturing and

TABLE OF CONTENTS

expert clinical trial management — streamlining

SPOTLIGHT

TRAINING AND EDUCATION

Trial Run

Cockrell Center for Advanced Therapeutics

A Direct Imperative

2

Medical Education

Hustle and Heart

TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH From Care to Commitment Gift Planning

ADAPT and Overcome Cell Therapy Research

Fall Scholars Program

6 8

page

6

10 12

the route from the researcher’s bench to the

Johnny for more than a decade of steadfast leader-

patient's bedside. I hope you’ll take a moment

ship and welcome our new chair, Gerald Smith.

to read more on page 2.

As we settle into 2026, I am honored to share

Also featured in this issue of Leading are

that our phenomenal community gave more than

updates on our philanthropy-driven work in protein

$121 million in 2025 to support our endeavors in

engineering, clinical and surgical education, and

translational research, medical education, patient

planned giving that ensures care for future gener-

care and community service. Words alone are

ations. In addition, we highlight a first-of-its-kind

insufficient to express the gratitude of our phys-

collaboration with Texas Children’s Hospital made

icians, scientists and other caregivers for such

possible by support from The Fondren Foundation.

generosity. We thank you and remain deeply

We’re thrilled that this partnership will safeguard

committed to stewarding your gifts in shared

continuity of care for young adults living with

service of our mission.

inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). You’ll find this story beginning on page 14.

With appreciation,

Speaking of partnerships, I’d like to take a moment to offer our heartfelt appreciation to Johnny Johnson, who stepped down as chair of the Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation Board of Directors in January. We sincerely thank

FLYNN A. ANDRIZZI, PhD President and CEO Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation

PATIENT EXPERIENCE Mind the Gap

IBD Care Transition

Technology in Its Prime Corporate Giving

page

12

NEWS & UPDATES

14 16

Physician Highlight

18

Gift Snapshots

20

Events Gallery

22

Giving at a Glance

24

Leadership Listing

25

Board News

26

Giving Societies

27

Letter From the Chair

28

Scan here to read the digital version of Leading magazine

SPOTLIGHT

TRI L RUN

Precision-engineered therapies take their first steps in early-phase clinical trials at the Cockrell Center for Advanced Therapeutics — translating science into hope for patients in need

2 Leading | Spring 2026

GIFT USHERS IN CLINICAL TRIAL GROWTH WITH A HUMAN TOUCH

In the world of biomedical research, clinical trials are the gauntlet through which every future cure must march.

For promising new therapies, phase 1 trials are a proving ground.

These early studies are often a drug’s first-in-human use and begin to answer the many questions that determine whether the agent advances to clinical adoption. Is it safe? Are side effects tolerable?

What is the appropriate dose?

Patient populations and research needs are growing at major academic medical centers.

Phase 1 and later-stage trials offer access to treatments not yet available elsewhere — and hope when the current standard of care falls short. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, the number of registered clinical trials in the U.S. has soared over the last 20 years, today standing at more than 160,000, with nearly 20,000 actively recruiting.

An Instrument of Change

nurtured the emergent work of talented physician-

Since 2010, the Cockrell Center for Advanced

scientists, enhanced by affiliations with leading

Therapeutics (CCAT) in the Houston Methodist

academic entities, such as The University of Texas

Research Institute has served as a gateway to

MD Anderson Cancer Center. Meanwhile, new

crucial clinical testing. Through the long-running

developments in the field of transplant oncology

generosity of The Cockrell Foundation, CCAT

have propelled CCAT to national prominence.

supports all phases of clinical research operations

“We see the center as illustrating what can

at Houston Methodist and became home to a

be achieved when you bring brilliant minds

Clinical Research Phase 1 Unit in 2015. This

together with the resources they need to trans-

onsite, early-phase and proof-of-concept trials

late their ideas into lifesaving therapies,” says

unit includes exam rooms, private infusion

Janet Cockrell, a director on The Cockrell

rooms and a specimen-processing lab, all

Foundation board.

adjacent to inpatient units and a dedicated radiology facility.

“CCAT is really the nexus of everything that

Strengthening the Human Element When The Cockrell Foundation made another

a translational research center like Houston

transformational investment in CCAT in

Methodist is built around,” explains Edward

2025, its board worked closely with Houston

Jones, president and CEO of the Houston

Methodist leadership to thoughtfully direct the

Methodist Research Institute. “It serves as the

gift. “We realized that to elevate the potential

conduit between the innovation happening in

of the current program, it’s necessary to build

our discovery laboratories and its application

out a different type of infrastructure: people,”

at the patient’s bedside.”

notes Stephanie Cockrell, executive director

Since CCAT’s inaugural trial, an international

of The Cockrell Foundation. “The human

effort targeting chronic lymphocytic leukemia,

element is critically important alongside the

the Phase 1 Unit has fueled 205 open clinical

physical resources and partnerships already

trials. Additional Cockrell pilot funding has

in place.”

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 3

GOING THROUGH A PHASE: Indeed, while Houston Methodist employs nearly 1,500 physicians systemwide, only those who undergo specialized, mentored training on regulatory requirements, research protocol

How Clinical Trials Pave the Way for Novel Therapies

and trial supervision become the credentialed principal investigators who conduct human

PRECLINICAL Does it show promise?

Testing in non-human subjects; studies efficacy, toxicity and drug behavior

interventional research. Similarly, clinical staff — including physician assistants and nurse practitioners (collectively termed advanced practice providers, or APPs) — must be rigorously trained on current regulations, technology and best practices.

“This investment in our CCAT investigators

Academic Office of Clinical Trials and CCAT.

and their vital support network radically advances

“And with more than 50% of our patients seen

CCAT’s role as a valued research partner across

in outlying areas of Houston, it increases

the Texas Medical Center,” says Pauline Todd,

synergies across our campuses to expand clinical

director of research for Houston Methodist’s

trial availability.”

PHASE 0–1

PHASE 2

PHASE 3

PHASE 4

First testing in human subjects (healthy volunteers); assesses dosing ranges and how the body absorbs, distributes and metabolizes the drug

Testing on patients; further determines efficacy and side effects

Testing on patients; measures the drug’s performance and side effects compared to standard care or a placebo

Commercial use; surveillance in the public patient population

Is it safe?

Does it work?

100–300 participants

Does it work better than what we have?

How does it function in the real world?

300–3,000 participants

10–15 participants (Phase 0) 20–100 participants (Phase 1)

Investigators in Training

A World-Class Research Hub

The new Virginia and Ernest Cockrell Jr. Advanced

As this human infrastructure grows, newly skilled

Therapeutics Development Endowment will launch

trialists will continue to tap into another integral

two highly anticipated training programs. First, the

asset: CCAT’s far-sighted collaboration with the

Cockrell Clinical Trialist Development Program

Houston Methodist Ann Kimball & John W. Johnson

will offer much-needed support for advanced

Center for Cellular Therapeutics. An onsite cellular

independent investigator education for MD and

manufacturing facility, the center supports preparation

MD-PhD providers with an interest in early-phase

of commercial cell therapy products — including

clinical studies.

CAR T cells for infusion at CCAT — dramatically

Second, the Cockrell Advanced Practice Provider and PharmD Development Program will equip APP and PharmD sub-investigators to conduct essential

reducing delays associated with contracting external cellular manufacturers.

“Our clinician-researchers have the distinct

patient management, study-related visits and

advantage of rapid translation of new ideas,”

follow-up services. Awardees from partnering

observes Todd. “This means that our CCAT

departments will receive up to two years of training

trialists can lean ever more into earlier disease

in clinical trial management in alliance with

intervention and prevention rather than only

a mentoring scientist as co-investigator. These

targeting advanced disease. This has real implications

advanced clinical partners will serve as an “exten-

for autoimmune conditions, neurodegenerative

sion” of busy principal investigators, increasing

disease, diabetes and other domains.”

process efficiencies and lowering overall trial costs.

“One of the things that makes CCAT so special

Sixteen years into CCAT’s mission, Jones reflects on its enduring blueprint as the core

is that it’s not wedded to researchers in just one

of a world-class research hub. “It’s hard to quantify

discipline,” says Jones. “Here, scientists across

the impact that the Cockrell family, both through

departments, including cancer, the neurosciences,

their generosity and leadership, has had from one

transplant and orthopedics, interact to share

generation to the next at Houston Methodist,” he

knowledge that serves to inform the others.”

concludes. “They’ve left an indelible mark on us and, in turn, on thousands of patients in need.”

TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH

FROM C RE TO COMMITMENT PAYING IT FORWARD TO SUPPORT FUTURE DISCOVERIES

Jennifer Briscoe’s weekly pet therapy visits to Houston Methodist with her standard poodles, Dorian and

Sydney, first sparked her desire to support the institution she credits with making an important difference in her life. As she brings comfort to patients through animal-assisted therapy, she also directly experiences the hospital’s patient-centered approach to care.

“I HAVE SEEN FIRSTHAND HOW PATIENTS BENEFIT EMOTIONALLY AND PHYSICALLY WHEN ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY WORKS HAND IN HAND WITH MODERN MEDICINE. IT IS A TRUE PRIVILEGE TO BE A PART OF THIS PROGRAM.” “Volunteering with my dogs at Houston

recruiter, she feels especially aligned with the

Methodist is incredibly rewarding and mean-

organization’s culture of excellence and comm-

ingful — just seeing Dorian and Sydney bring joy,

itment to people.

comfort and unconditional love to the patients

After participating in a research study in

who need it the most,” Briscoe explains. “I have

2025, Briscoe became inspired by the role

seen firsthand how patients benefit emotionally

scientific discovery plays in promoting health

and physically when animal-assisted therapy

care. The experience strengthened her desire

works hand in hand with modern medicine.

to help accelerate research that could positively

It is a true privilege to be a part of this program.”

impact future generations.

Under the guidance of her own care team,

When Briscoe contacted the Houston

Briscoe successfully managed a neurological

Methodist Hospital Foundation last May, she

condition and gained a deep appreciation for

had a clear goal: to support groundbreaking

the expertise and compassion shown by her

research and innovation. Thoughtful and

physicians and staff. Throughout her exper-

forward-looking in her planning, she struc-

ience, she says, every interaction reinforced

tured a bequest that reflects the gratitude

her belief that Houston Methodist treats each

she feels for the care she has received and the

individual with dignity and respect. As a

significant relationships she has built.

6 Leading | Spring 2026

Jennifer Briscoe with her dogs, Dorian and Sydney

Her gift to Houston Methodist will be directed toward research initiatives aimed at addressing some of today’s most challenging diseases. While she understands that medical

breakthroughs take time, Briscoe remains motivated by a sense of purpose.

As she says, “I want to know I am leaving the world a better place.”

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 7

TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH

AD PT AND OVERCOME A PANDEMIC-ERA COLLABORATION SPARKS A NEW MODEL FOR PERSONALIZED CARE

It was March 2020. The SARS-CoV-2 virus was spreading rapidly across the

United States, overwhelming hospitals while clinicians urgently searched for anything that might help protect their most vulnerable patients. Amid this uncertainty, Jimmy D. Gollihar, PhD, was working at The University of Texas at Austin in close collaboration with physician-scientists in the Houston Methodist Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine. The team was among the first to acquire and test blood samples from recovered COVID-19 patients to determine whether their antibodies could neutralize the virus in immune-compromised individuals.

The partnership forged during those frantic early weeks not only guided clinical treatment decisions over the course of the pandemic but also set the stage for Dr. Gollihar’s eventual move to Houston Methodist. “We were translating ideas from the laboratory to the market, and seeing an immediate impact on patients was eye-opening,” he says. “We wanted to pursue that on a larger scale.”

“SEEING AN IMMEDIATE IMPACT ON PATIENTS WAS EYE-OPENING. WE WANTED TO PURSUE THAT ON A LARGER SCALE.” After arriving at the Houston Methodist

more than 40 research scientists working

Research Institute in January 2022, he and his

synchronously to design molecular tools

five-person team of bioengineers began trans-

and tailor treatments to patients’ unique

forming a blank slate of laboratory space into a

disease profiles.

state-of-the-art center for protein engineering

That vision for individualized care became

and synthetic biology. “Houston Methodist

a reality in late 2025, when — just four years

already had the clinical infrastructure and manu-

after the lab first opened its doors — the FDA

facturing capabilities needed for translational

authorized a single-patient expanded access

research,” Dr. Gollihar explains. “Once we

(compassionate use) request for a therapy

added in the capacity to engineer proteins and

formulated using ADAPT technology. Similar

biomolecules, we could move our findings into

in principle to the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine,

patient-ready care very quickly.”

it functions by “training” the host’s immune

Today, the Antibody Discovery and Accel-

system to recognize, target and attack unhealthy

erated Protein Therapeutics (ADAPT) lab

cells with high precision. Although the team’s

functions similarly to a biotech startup embedded

ongoing work in cancer and infectious diseases

within the hospital system. Optimized for speed,

is positioned to advance to additional human

scalability and direct clinical impact, it houses

trials this year, Dr. Gollihar emphasizes that

8 Leading | Spring 2026

the platform itself is disease independent. In

discovery. Two years later, he was promoted to

other words, if a condition can be addressed

chief of translational science for the Houston

through a therapeutic protein, his team can

Methodist Academic Institute and appointed

engineer it.

the Katz Family Innovative Protein Therapeutics

Since joining the hospital, Dr. Gollihar's

Distinguished Endowed Chair, underscoring

efforts have been recognized through prestigious

a shared institutional and philanthropic comm-

academic appointments and critical funding.

itment to elevating ADAPT’s clinical mission.

He was named a Jerold B. Katz Academy of

With every discovery, Dr. Gollihar and his team

Translational Research Investigator in 2023 —

bring us one step closer to a world where preci-

a lifelong title supported by the Jerold B. Katz

sion-engineered treatments are not the exception,

Foundation to fuel high-impact biomedical

but the expectation.

Dr. Jimmy D. Gollihar, head of the ADAPT laboratory

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 9

TRAINING & EDUCATION

A DIRECT IMPER TIVE ADVANCING OPPORTUNITIES IN HIGHER EDUCATION

A high school student who has only learned about surgery in a classroom or on a screen can today step into a simulation

lab at Houston Methodist and experience the reality of an operating room in full motion. Such opportunities to introduce tomorrow’s workforce to the medical field expand horizons and open doors — and they are urgently needed. With the nation facing critical health care shortages, early exposure is essential, especially for students from disadvantaged communities, who often lack access to such opportunities.

In reality, only 17% of U.S. college freshmen on a pre-med track ultimately matriculate into medical school, with even lower rates among under-resourced students. Limited mentorship, minimal hands-on experience and uncertainty about college all contribute to this gap. Houston Methodist is uniquely positioned to change this trajectory through structured, early-introduction programs.

10 Leading | Spring 2026

Philanthropic partners like Richard “Dick” Bergmark and his wife, Toni, amplify this impact.

Dick’s enduring commitment to education — shaped by his understanding of barriers faced by students and inspired by the retirement of his longtime physician, Dr. Wade R. Rosenberg — led to conversations with Dr. A. Osama Gaber. Dr. Gaber, the John F., Jr. and Carolyn Bookout Presidential Distinguished Chair and chair of the Houston Methodist Department of Surgery, is also the founder of the Clinical and Surgical Opportunity Academy. Together, Dick and Dr. Gaber envisioned a meaningful, scalable way to cultivate the next generation of health care professionals, much like the Rosenberg Fellowship, which offers college students the chance to spend time with surgeons and deepen their interest in medical school and surgery.

“IF YOU LOOK AT EDUCATION ACROSS THE HOUSTON METHODIST SYSTEM, IT’S MORE IMPORTANT TO ME TO FOCUS ON THE FRONT END, THE HIGH SCHOOLERS AND UNDERGRADUATES, TO SHOW THEM WHAT’S POSSIBLE.” The Clinical and Surgical Opportunity

with schools in neighborhoods with limited

Academy is among Houston Methodist’s growing

resources, the endowment’s impact will also

suite of educational programs aimed at high

help remove barriers and expand the health care

school and young adult learners. Designed to

talent pool. “If you look at education across the

broaden access to health care careers, programs

Houston Methodist system, it’s more important

already making an impact include the Rising

to me to focus on the front end, the high schoolers

Stars Summer Enrichment program, High

and undergraduates, to show them what’s

School Emerging Researcher Experience and

possible,” says Dick.

Patient Care Assistant externship for high

Initial funding is slated to accelerate the

school students, as well as the Advancement

growth of the Clinical and Surgical Opportunity

Into Professional Practice nursing internship

Academy, with future expansion extending across

and Summer Undergraduate Research Intern-

all early-introduction programs. Ultimately, the

ship for college students.

growth made possible through the Bergmarks’

To help ensure these programs reach their

foresight and Houston Methodist’s commitment

full potential, the Bergmarks made a gift that

will transform promising programs into life-

will establish the Bergmark Endowed Director-

changing opportunities, preparing those who

ship in Clinical Education and Advancement.

will guide the future. Trevor M. Burt, EdD, chief

The directorship will enable Houston Methodist

education officer and vice president of system

to recruit and retain a distinguished academic

education at the Houston Methodist Academic

leader who will work to unify a sweeping educa-

Institute, says, “The Bergmarks’ generosity will

tional mission — integrating curricula, securing

have a profound impact on Houston Methodist’s

resources, attracting faculty mentors and building

commitment to developing the next generation

strategic partnerships. By deepening relationships

of health care talent for our community.”

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 11

TRAINING & EDUCATION

HUSTLE AND HE RT

2025 Fall Scholars Hilario Barron and Sydney Hodge

THE FALL SCHOLARS PROGRAM HONORS ITS SECOND COHORT

“There’s nothing like hearing a baby’s first cry — it’s such a precious moment to witness,” said E’Vonne

Gipson to a rapt audience at the 2025 Houston Methodist Fall Scholars closing program this past December. She was reflecting on her eight weeks as a Fall Scholar in the Houston Methodist Childbirth Center at Sugar Land.

Gipson and fellow members of the 2025 Fall Scholars cohort joined family, mentors and hospital leadership to celebrate the term’s successful conclusion. Conceived by the Houston Methodist Office of Culture & Engagement in 2024, the annual internship provides nonclinical, hands-on work experience for participants, all of whom are early-career individuals with a disability.

12 Leading | Spring 2026

“Houston Methodist has created a space where people with disabilities can feel empowered through meaningful work,” Gipson continued. “I hope many future scholars will get to experience what we did.”

Sydney Hodge, a fellow Fall Scholar, spoke of her role in the breast cancer unit at Houston Methodist West Hospital. “I enjoyed getting to know the patients and helping them during a difficult time,” she said. “I also grew my independent skills. I want to continue to work because helping others makes me feel good about myself!”

Across the United States, one in four adults is born with or develops a disability at some point in his or her lifetime. These over 70 million Americans experience unemployment rates more than double those of adults without disabilities — a gap driven not by personal potential but by access and opportunity. For many families, the Fall Scholars program represents a hopeful and long-awaited shift.

“As parents, we all want to know that our children will find happiness and fulfillment long after we’re gone,” said Dan Furnish, father of Fall Scholar Ryan Furnish, who worked in supply chain management and now volunteers at Houston Methodist West. “Discovering a program that embraces different needs and abilities was a godsend. We are deeply grateful to Houston Methodist for opening this door of possibilities.”

“IF WE CAN LEARN TO ACCOMMODATE PEOPLE AND ASK WHAT THEY NEED, WE ENABLE THEM TO PERFORM AT THEIR BEST.” For Hilario Barron, this open door led to

Looking ahead, the team is seeking philan-

a deepened interest in information technology

thropic partnership to expand the program while

(IT) at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital.

still maintaining its intimate cohort size and

“At home, I’ve always been the tech support for

strong mentorship structure. Their long-term

my family,” he said. “Seeing how those same skills

vision is to create a path to sustained employ-

could support patients and doctors was incredibly

ment following the internship. Two members of

rewarding. It showed me how essential IT is to

the 2024 cohort have already secured positions

every part of the hospital.”

with Houston Methodist, and others have flour-

Arianne Dowdell, JD, Houston Methodist

ished with external organizations.

vice president and chief culture and engagement

What the farewell event made clear to every-

officer, and Nazia Imrose, Fall Scholars program

one present was the exceptional determination

manager, further reflected on the program’s

and sincerity each Fall Scholar brought to his

broader purpose and its role in shaping work-

or her work. “You can learn the skills,” said

place culture. “At the end of the day, we all want

program mentor Connie Ortega, director of

to feel good about ourselves and the work we do,”

supply chain management at Houston Methodist

said Dowdell. “If we can learn to accommodate

Clear Lake Hospital. “But you need to have

people and ask what they need, we enable them

hustle and heart in what you do to find success.

to perform at their best.”

These scholars have it.”

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 13

PATIENT EXPERIENCE

MIND THE G P BRIDGING THE DIVIDE BETWEEN PEDIATRIC AND ADULT IBD CARE

There are many well-known milestones on the journey from adolescence to adulthood — deciding whether or not

to attend college, leaving home for the first time and starting a career, to name a few. But for young people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), one milestone has proven especially difficult: the transition from pediatric to adult medical care. Researchers predict IBD will affect as much as 1% of the population within the next decade. The good news is there has been remarkable progress in the diagnosis and treatment of IBD, with many innovative new treatments coming to light.

Although this is heartening for the IBD sufferer, it also means providing optimal care has become more complicated and requires very specialized expertise. This can make finding a specialist who is accepting new patients both arduous and time-consuming, and a lapse in care can have serious consequences.

“If I’m in remission and I have to wait a long time for a new doctor to see me, that creates added stress that can cause a flare-up,” says clinical psychotherapist and IBD advocate Danielle White, PhD, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis at the age of 15. Although she is now a long-term patient of Dr. Bincy P. Abraham, the Fondren Distinguished Professor in Inflammatory Bowel Disease at the Houston Methodist Underwood Center for Digestive Health, White once endured more than 14 months without access to care for her chronic illness after aging out of pediatric treatment at Texas Children’s Hospital.

“MY DOCTORS HAVE SUPPORTED ME IN ALL OF MY GOALS. THEY TRULY SEE ME AS A WHOLE PERSON AND DON’T DEFINE ME ONLY BY MY ILLNESS.” Stories like White’s are the inspiration for

“These ailments have great impact on the

a new, first-of-its-kind partnership between

individual beyond just the physical — there are

Houston Methodist and Texas Children’s. Empow-

also psychological and social repercussions,”

ered by a transformative commitment from

says Dr. Eamonn M. M. Quigley, director of the

The Fondren Foundation, dedicated transition

Underwood Center. “The goal behind this program

teams at both institutions will coordinate multi-

is to factor in and cater to all of those needs.”

dimensional support for young adults with IBD,

White attests to this approach. “My doctors have

ensuring they receive seamless, continuous care.

supported me in all of my goals. They truly see me

In accordance with the Underwood Center’s

as a whole person and don’t define me only by my

holistic methodology, patients can expect not

illness,” she adds. “I’ve been genuinely blessed

only world-class medical treatment but also nutri-

to have Dr. Abraham in my life.” The confidence

tional, psychological and socioeconomic support

gained from knowing her IBD is well managed

to truly help manage all aspects of their disease.

encouraged White to accomplish many more of

14 Leading | Spring 2026

life’s milestones, such as earning her doctorate

are relatively rare, but they are becoming more

and traveling out of the country for the first time.

common,” Dr. Quigley explains. “These indiv-

In addition to helping young adults with IBD

iduals tend to have quite an aggressive form of

thrive as White has, the Fondren IBD Transition

disease that requires a great deal of research;

Program promises to advance scientific under-

tracking their development from the time of

standing of gastrointestinal inflammatory

their diagnosis into adulthood will be critical to

diseases, paving the way for novel therapies

maintaining their progress and helping prevent

through research and clinical trials. The comb-

deterioration in their disease.”

ined data resources of Houston Methodist and

This revolutionary model of care, made poss-

Texas Children’s will provide the foundation for

ible through the visionary support of The Fondren

groundbreaking studies into how IBD progresses

Foundation, builds on a legacy of patronage and

over patients’ lifetimes and will give physician-

reaffirms a steadfast commitment to elevating

scientists vital insight into changes in micro-

gastrointestinal care. Sums up Dr. Quigley: “We

biome composition and inflammatory and

are intensely grateful to The Fondren Foundation

immune responses.

for supporting this initiative. Their foresight and

The importance of this improved under-

advocacy continue to have a profound impact

standing is underscored by a notable increase

on our patients and our practice, enabling us

in the incidence of pediatric IBD cases. “The

to redefine care for inflammatory diseases for

forms of IBD that begin very early in childhood

current and future generations.”

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 15

PATIENT EXPERIENCE

TECHNOLOGY IN ITS PRIME

16 Leading | Spring 2026

A WISE INVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE

“They’re using technology in a way that brings humanity — as well as more accurate diagnoses — to patients. It’s really amazing, and

we want to support that kind of excellence in care,” says Annette Zimmerman, CEO of PrimeWay Federal Credit Union, referencing PrimeWay’s recent gift to the Houston Methodist Cypress Hospital Excellence Fund.

Opened in March 2025, Houston Methodist Cypress is home to some of today’s most state-ofthe-art medical technology. Robot systems enhance surgical precision to enable minimally invasive procedures that speed recovery. Modern patient rooms streamline care with advancements like artificial intelligence (AI) and remote monitoring. And integrated voice-response systems improve patients’ comfort by increasing their control over their environments, allowing them to adjust room lighting, make calls, interact with entertainment systems and more without lifting a finger.

Trent Fulin, the hospital’s senior vice president and CEO, notes that medical technology often gets an undeserved reputation for seeming impersonal. “Ambient listening tools actually allow our physicians to interact with patients in ways that are more personal, not less,” he explains. “Rather than sitting behind a computer screen and typing notes, they can give patients their full attention and have more natural conversations while the AI takes care of documentation.” He points out that automating documentation also frees up significant time for clinicians, who can then reinvest that time into patient care.

“AMBIENT LISTENING TOOLS ACTUALLY ALLOW OUR PHYSICIANS TO INTERACT WITH PATIENTS IN WAYS THAT ARE MORE PERSONAL, NOT LESS.” PrimeWay’s support for Houston Methodist,

“Our goal is to provide support to all of the

which began in 1994, goes far beyond the

Houston Methodist team and help alleviate the

financial. True to their mission as a community-

stress of managing their personal finances,” adds

centered, not-for-profit organization, PrimeWay

T. W. Jolly, PrimeWay’s executive vice president.

also provides free financial literacy classes to

“If we can make their staff’s lives easier, that

students participating in Houston Methodist’s

staff can then better serve the people who need

Patient Care Assistant (PCA) externship. Open

their care.”

to high school graduating seniors, the PCA

In honor of PrimeWay’s latest philanthropic

externship offers at-risk students the opportu-

gift, the grand entry atrium at Houston Methodist

nity to gain hands-on training and experience,

Cypress will be renamed the PrimeWay Health-

after which they qualify to apply for open PCA

care Community Credit Union Atrium. “It’s a

positions within the hospital network. The addi-

beautiful, serene space,” says Fulin. “The atrium

tion of a sound financial education helps further

is a very appropriate symbol of the peace of

prepare these young adults for success as they

mind both Houston Methodist and PrimeWay

begin their new careers as medical professionals.

seek to bring to the communities we serve.”

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 17

PHYSICIAN HIGHLIGHT DR. JENNY C.

CHANG

JENNY C. CHANG, MBChirB, MD Ernest Cockrell, Jr. Presidential Distinguished Chair President and CEO, Houston Methodist Academic Institute Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer Houston Methodist Professor of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College

18 Leading | Spring 2026

Q: WHICH EMERGING AREAS OF MEDICAL RESEARCH MOST EXCITE YOU? It’s truly a watershed moment for medicine.

Q: HOW HAVE EXPERTS AT HOUSTON METHODIST CHANGED THE WAY OTHERS APPROACH MEDICINE?

Just over 20 years ago, the human genome was

Houston Methodist has changed the practice

sequenced. Now, we know how the actual genetic

of medicine in several ways, beginning with its

drivers impact many diseases, including cancer.

historic leadership in cardiology and cardiovas-

We also have the capabilities and tools to trans-

cular care, which remains a core strength today.

late those discoveries for direct patient care.

We’ve expanded into other areas throughout our

Take bioengineered therapeutics, for example.

system as well to integrate innovations in surgery,

Today, we can edit genes and create monoclonal

medicine, oncology and imaging. Notably, we are

antibodies or even personalized vaccines.

also deeply committed to education and knowl-

Consider a cellular therapy that originates in

edge dissemination. Our advanced education

a Houston Methodist lab. We can manufacture

platforms include our widely followed DeBakey

it in the Ann Kimball & John W. Johnson Center

CV Education YouTube channel, which reaches

for Cellular Therapeutics, resulting in clinicalgrade therapies that are FDA-approved for use in patients. Next, we can deliver these therapies to the Cockrell Center for Advanced Therapeutics for early-phase clinical trials.

This continuum allows us to transform basic discoveries into personally targeted drugs and deliver them into our patients — entirely within our own ecosystem.

Q: HOW CAN WE BEST ADDRESS PERVASIVE AGE-RELATED DISEASES? There are many encouraging therapies on the horizon that I believe will ultimately impact these diseases. Let’s talk about dementia. Understanding that this and other neurodegenerative diseases have a major immunologic component, we now have emerging therapies that cross the blood-brain barrier to modify disease trajectory.

We also know that patient outcomes can be improved with early detection, whether through advanced imaging — like our state-of-the-art 7-Tesla MRI scanner — or with promising blood-based profiling biomarkers. And since we operate a cellular therapeutics center, we

and educates clinicians and patients around the world.

Q: WHAT ATTRACTS PHYSICIANS AND RESEARCHERS TO WORK AT HOUSTON METHODIST? Houston Methodist is an academic health system that takes discovery at our main campus and conveys it across all our network hospitals, prioritizing an exceptional patient experience.

We are one system — one Houston Methodist — guided by our faith-based foundation and I CARE values of integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and excellence. We’re further set apart by our innovation, from technologyenabled hospitals and clinics to wearable biosensors, virtual nursing and data-driven insight. In addition, we train the next generation of physicians to possess the same ethos, practicing patient-first, unparalleled care.

Houston Methodist is also a genuinely energizing and inspiring place to work. Our shared purpose and passion are the secret sauce.

You can’t bottle it, but it’s real, and it matters.

have the capacity to produce investigational therapies onsite. All with the goal of offering new hope and improving outcomes for people

Scan here to continue the conversation with Dr. Chang

suffering from these debilitating illnesses.

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 19

GIFT SN PSHOTS GIFT PROMOTES HEALING AND RECOVERY AFTER PROSTATE CANCER CARE The William Randolph Hearst Foundation is deepening its philanthropic partnership with Houston Methodist through a generous commitment to the Urology Survivorship and Recovery Initiative Fund. This investment will further FDA-approved clinical research, including a pioneering study examining whether regenerative therapies can help preserve critical nerve pathways during prostate cancer surgery, enhancing long-term functional outcomes.

The randomized, double-blind clinical trials will evaluate the safety and potential therapeutic benefits of a stem cell-based intervention compared with standard care, focusing on protecting and restoring the neurovascular structures most at risk during radical prostatectomy. The foundation’s gift supports these researchers in their work to lessen the lasting effects of treatment, accelerate patients’ return to a high quality of life and establish new benchmarks for patient-centered recovery in prostate cancer care.

LIFESAVING NEUROSURGERY INSPIRES PAYNE FAMILY SUPPORT Speaking of her family’s experience with Houston Methodist, Karen Payne says, “It was just a matter of a miracle.” As active members of the Houston Methodist community with an interest in neurology, Karen and her husband, Mel, were invited to hear Dr. Gavin Britz, the Candy and Tom Knudson Distinguished Centennial Chair in Neurosurgery, speak about a recent breakthrough: mechanical thrombectomy. Little did they know that a mere four days later, Dr. Britz would use that very same procedure to save Mel’s life after he suffered an ischemic stroke.

With Mel now significantly recovered, the Paynes chose to make a generous contribution to the Houston Methodist Department of Neurosurgery to help ensure brilliant physicians like Dr. Britz can continue pursuing cutting-edge research and bringing innovative procedures to their patients.

In appreciation of this gift, the Interventional Radiology Family Room in Houston Methodist’s new Centennial Tower (opening in 2027) will be named the Karen and Mel Payne Family Room.

20 Leading | Spring 2026

Scan here to listen to the Paynes’ story

A THOUGHTFUL MISSION TO ADVANCE ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH Gary Williams’ recent gift to the Neurology Alzheimer’s Research Fund will strengthen the work of teams studying Alzheimer’s disease at the Houston Methodist Neurological Institute. Williams, a Dallas resident, has also supported the Nantz National Alzheimer Center. His continued generosity expands the important efforts of accomplished scientists like Hyunglok Chung, PhD, and Kyuson Yun, PhD, the Houston Methodist Chair in Neurodegenerative Disease Research. Drs. Yun’s and Chung’s research spans early detection via immune and neural biomarkers and development of innovative therapeutic strategies focused on lipid metabolism, respectively. Through philanthropy, these and other Houston Methodist investigators are pushing the boundaries of how Alzheimer’s disease is detected, monitored and treated.

HONORING THE PAST, TRANSFORMING THE FUTURE OF EYE HEALTH When Kelli and Eddy Blanton made a 2025 gift to the Blanton Eye Institute Fund, they did so with a dual purpose: to honor the legacy of Jack S. Blanton Sr. and help drive meaningful impact in ophthalmologic research and patient care. Eddy’s father, Jack, was a distinguished Houston civic leader who was instrumental in establishing the Jack S. Blanton Sr. Eye Institute. Kelli and Eddy saw this gift as the ideal method to spark broader philanthropic interest in the Blanton Eye Institute.

Their hope is that others will recognize the groundbreaking work underway at the nationally acclaimed center and join in supporting its continued growth. The institute has become a widely recognized leader in treating complex eye diseases and is one of the few programs in the country with dedicated ocular pathology services.

SMITH GIFT HIGHLIGHTS ORTHOPEDIC ADVANCES Michelle and Alan Smith’s philanthropic investment will serve to establish the Orthopedics Research Innovation Fund within the Houston Methodist Department of Orthopedic Surgery. Alan, a former collegiate tennis player at Texas Tech University, has been following the work of Francesca Taraballi, PhD, director of the Center for Musculoskeletal Regeneration, whose research aligns closely with that of Dr. Patrick McCulloch, the John S. Dunn Chair in Orthopedic Surgery. Together, they are investigating the therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in treating osteoarthritis.

The Orthopedics Research Innovation Fund will support an FDA-approved clinical trial evaluating the use of MSCs as a surgical complement in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair. If successful, the research team plans to expand clinical trials to assess efficacy in rotator cuff repair and, ultimately, in cartilage regeneration. The Smiths’ gift will help to catalyze the clinical trials necessary to achieve transformative progress in orthopedic care.

EVENTS

NEW FRONTIERS IN NEUROLOGY

WOMEN’S HEART HEALTH DINNER

22 Leading | Spring 2026

CHARLES W. DUNCAN JR. DEPARTMENT OF MEDICINE NAMING CELEBRATION

Scan here for more photos

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 23

2025

GIVING AT A GLANCE

TOTAL COMMITTED

$ 121.4

4,308 GIFTS

MILLION

AREAS OF GIVING

3,498 DONORS 1,053 NEW DONORS GIFT TYPES

44% RESEARCH 23% EDUCATION 22% PATIENT CARE 11% FACULTY

22 Leading | Winter 2025

62% PLEDGES 19% CASH 13% PLANNED GIFTS 5% EXTRAMURAL RESEARCH GRANTS 1%

GIFTS IN KIND/ PROPERTY

LEADERSHIP

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation Senior Leadership Team

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation Board of Directors

Flynn A. Andrizzi, PhD, President and CEO Adam Gafke, Senior Foundation Chief Operations Officer Michelle Oster, Senior Chief Development Officer Jackie Callies, Chief Development Officer Catherine Del Paggio, Chief Development Officer Derek Dictson, Chief Development Officer Avaleen Morris, Chief Donor Relations and Stewardship Officer Angelica Garza, Associate Chief Operations Officer Marc Levinson, Associate Chief Governance and Volunteer Relations Officer

Gerald B. Smith, Chair Dorothy M. Ables, Vice Chair David M. Underwood, Jr., Secretary John W. Johnson, Immediate Past Chair John F. Bookout, Chair Emeritus Flynn A. Andrizzi, PhD, President and CEO, Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation Marc L. Boom, MD, President and CEO, Houston Methodist W. Leslie Doggett Martha “Marty” Dudley Charles W. “Carlos” Duncan III Lesha Elsenbrook Ed Knight Gregory V. Nelson Ann Stern Joseph C. “Rusty” Walter III Elizabeth Blanton Wareing Marc A. Watts Linda Webster Randa Weiner Ewing Werlein, Jr.

Houston Methodist Board of Directors Gregory V. Nelson, Chair John F. Bookout, Chair Emeritus Ewing Werlein, Jr., Senior Chair Marc L. Boom, MD, President and CEO Carlton E. Baucum, Vice Chair Mary A. Daffin, Vice Chair Elizabeth Blanton Wareing, Secretary David M. Underwood, Jr., Asst. Secretary Joseph C. “Rusty” Walter III, Treasurer Joe Bob Perkins, Asst. Treasurer Emily A. Crosswell Martha Smith DeBusk Juliet S. Ellis Ricardo R. Gonzalez, MD Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey Mark A. Houser Karla M. Kurrelmeyer, MD, President of the Medical Staff Vidal G. Martinez W. Benjamin Moreland The Rev. Matthew Neely Thomas J. Pace III, DMin Armando A. Perez Edmund W. Robb III, DMin Douglas E. Swanson, Jr. Spencer A. Tillman Advisory Apurva A. Thekdi, MD, President-Elect of the Medical Staff The Rev. Romonica Malone-Wardley Life Members Ernest H. Cockrell James C. Dishman Isaac H. Kempner III Robert K. Moses, Jr. Sandra Gayle Wright, RN, EdD

Houston Methodist Academic Institute Board of Directors W. Benjamin Moreland, Chair Spencer A. Tillman, Vice Chair Evan H. Katz, Secretary Marc L. Boom, MD, President and CEO, Houston Methodist Jenny C. Chang, MD, President and CEO, Houston Methodist Academic Institute Edward A. Jones, President and CEO, Houston Methodist Research Institute Edward R. Allen III, PhD Steven Birdwell John F. Bookout III David T. Chao Mary A. Daffin Elaine W. Finger Antonio M. Gotto, Jr., MD, DPhil Robert A. Harrington, MD Sean Keegan Sippi K. Khurana, MD Steven S. Looke Ransom C. Lummis Michael Colby Mueck James F. Muschalik Gregory V. Nelson Joe Bob Perkins Edward D. “Ward” Sheffield Jeffrey F. Simmons Suzanne H. Smith Margaret Ogilvie Stacy Christopher G. Stavros Steven D. Stephens Amy L. Waer, MD Ewing Werlein, Jr. Donna Sims Wilson

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 25

BOARD NEWS

We had the opportunity earlier this year to

and exceptional patient care. One of the high-

honor just the second chair of the Houston

lights of the campaign was the creation of the

Methodist Hospital Foundation Board

Ann Kimball & John W. Johnson Center for

of Directors, Johnny Johnson. Johnson

Cellular Therapeutics, which Johnson and

joined the board in 2011 and became chair

his wife, Ann, established with a transfor-

in 2015, taking over from inaugural chair

mational gift in 2019.

John F. Bookout.

In his 11 years at the helm, Johnson guided

Johnson was honored at the annual Foundation Board Dinner on Jan. 13, 2026,

the Foundation board through the successful

where he was presented with a captain’s chair,

conclusion of our second-ever fundraising

recognizing his outstanding tenure as board

campaign. The Leading Medicine to the

chair. We are thankful that his service to

Power of M — Campaign for Our Second

Houston Methodist continues — Johnson

Century surpassed its $500 million goal in

will serve as immediate past chair of the

2020, securing $517.9 million to support

Foundation board through 2027.

endowed positions, translational research

Outgoing board chair John W. Johnson (seated) with Flynn A. Andrizzi, Gregory V. Nelson and Dr. Marc L. Boom

26 Leading | Spring 2026

WE INVITE YOU TO CHANGE MEDICINE WITH US

At Houston Methodist, your generosity fuels

entire hospital system. The Unparalleled Partners

leading medicine — and every gift is a step

program spotlights cumulative giving since

toward a healthier future. This January, the

2003, honoring those whose long-standing

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation proudly

leadership has helped shape Houston Methodist’s

introduced two donor recognition programs that

very character.

acknowledge foundational commitment from our philanthropic community.

The Society for Leading Medicine recognizes annual giving that sustains key initiatives in

Together, Society and Unparalleled Partners celebrate philanthropic investment in all its forms — annual and lifelong — as we continue our life-changing mission as one.

patient care, research and education across the

Scan here to learn more and find your voice in our shared vision

Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 27

I am humbled to begin this inaugural letter as the newly elected chair of the Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation Board of Directors by

LETTER FROM THE CHAIR

giving praise where it is so richly due: to you, our generous benefactors. Together, you contributed a collective $121.4 million in philanthropic support in 2025, for which we are deeply grateful.

This magazine shares the stories of some of our most dedicated donor families — recognizable names such as Cockrell and Fondren.

It also welcomes new partners into the Houston Methodist family — like Toni and Dick Bergmark and Jennifer Briscoe. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who gave of your time and resources this past year. All of your stories are worth telling, and we look forward to featuring others in future issues of Leading.

It is a great honor to lead the Foundation board. Houston Methodist is well-known and highly regarded — earning a spot on the U.S. News & World Report Honor Roll of the nation’s top 20 hospitals, as well as being recognized as the No. 1 hospital in Texas for the 14th consecutive year. But what means even more is the holistic, innovative and valuesbased approach to transformational care that always puts the patient at the center of everything we do. Whether you have experienced this firsthand or seek to make a difference for others, thank you for investing in our lifesaving mission of leading medicine.

GERALD B. SMITH CHAIR, BOARD OF DIRECTORS HOUSTON METHODIST HOSPITAL FOUNDATION 28 Leading | Spring 2026

CREDITS

President and CEO, Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation: Flynn A. Andrizzi, PhD Editorial Director: Shawn Gustafson Managing Publisher: Marjorie Gonzalez | Editorial Assistants: Veronica Caporicci, Stacy Jones Writers: Becky Courington, Kelly Hartman, Luanne Jorewicz, Marc Levinson Creative Director: Karen Holland | Designer: Ashley Jones | Illustrator: Jing Jing Tsong Photographer: Terry Vine (with Midjourney backgrounds) © 2026 Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation. All rights reserved.

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SHAPING THE FUTURE As a nonprofit organization, Houston Methodist depends on the generosity and commitment of supporters like you. Thank you for helping us continue to lead medicine by keeping patients at the center of everything we do.

CONNECT WITH US: Houston Methodist Hospital Foundation 832.667.5816 | foundation@houstonmethodist.org houstonmethodist.org /giving Scan here to help shape the future of health care 2026 SP FDN-Magazine 2025 SP FDN-Magazine