Kay and Ben Fortson Give $1 Million to IMM

Gift will boost research into the fundamental causes of neurodegenerative diseases

From art to molecular medicine, Kay and Ben Fortson are helping build a better world for generations to come.

Ben and Kay Fortson

Known for their role in building the internationally acclaimed Kimbell Art Museum and their life-long commitment to the city of Fort Worth, the Fortsons recently pledged $1 million in Houston to the Brown Foundation Institute of Molecular Medicine for the Prevention of Human Diseases (IMM) to help unravel the molecular mysteries behind human diseases.

"The Fortsons' pledge to the New Frontiers Campaign is a shining example of their dedication to improving individual quality of life - not only in Fort Worth, but throughout Texas, the nation and even the world," said James T. Willerson, M.D., president of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston.

"Through the IMM, we will discover ways to treat and cure devastating conditions like dementia, heart disease and diabetes - conditions that are afflicting more and more of our families and friends. With the IMM's new building under way, Kay's and Ben's generosity will help us take the next exciting steps toward our ultimate goal of disease prevention," Willerson added.

He said the gift will establish a distinguished chair, named for the Fortsons, in the new Research Center for the Neurosciences. He explained that the endowed faculty position would help the IMM recruit a top scientist to conduct research into the fundamental causes behind neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Ben Fortson, independent oil producer and trustee emeritus of Texas Christian University, said, "We are pleased to support Dr. Willerson's bold vision of disease prevention. The IMM gives us a chance to play a role in the future of medicine and to give others hope for better health."

Lifelong residents of Fort Worth, the Fortsons received the 65th annual Golden Deeds Award 10 years ago from the city's Exchange Club, in recognition of their extraordinary contributions and citizenship.

Kay Forston has served as president and chair of the board of directors of the Kimbell Art Foundation since 1975 and as a director since 1956. She is also an active trustee of Texas Christian University.

Their pledge brings the $200 million campaign up to $185 million as of November 2004. The goal of the campaign, chaired by Beth Robertson and co-chaired by Ben Love, is to build a new home for the IMM and to recruit and support world-class researchers.

By Amber Buckley, Development