September 7, 2006 Source: :
http://communications.uwo.ca/media_newsroom/story.html?listing_id=21804 Million Dollar Gift to Aid Research London, ON. - Newly renovated laboratories at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at The University of Western Ontario are making it easier for scientists to conduct their research thanks to a million dollar donation from Mitchell Baran, owner and Chairman of the Trudell Medical Group, his wife Kathryn and their four children, George, Matthew, Kristen and Danielle. In honor of the gift, the second floor of the Medical Sciences Building was named "The Baran Family Centre for Medical Sciences Research & Innovation" earlier today. A four-to-one funding match on the Baran gift, available through a challenge grant offered by the Kresge Foundation and government grants, has leveraged the Barans' generous contribution to $5 million. Baran is a passionate believer in the importance and value of innovation. "Innovation has been a key driver of Trudell's success, as well as that of this fine university," says Baran. "Fostering a culture of innovation is paramount to Canada's future, and the development of a knowledge-based society. My family is pleased to help build upon the tradition of this great medical school." "Western thanks the Baran family for this tremendous gift," says Paul Davenport, Western's President. "Through their contribution, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry further solidifies its reputation as a national and international medical facility at which to study and conduct research." "This is truly an ideal partnership as Schulich Medicine, Western and the Baran family all share a commitment to innovative research," says Dr. Carol Herbert, Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. "We strive to provide scientists with a dynamic environment, and this generous gift from the Baran family allows us to continue to update and renovate our research facilities." Scientists such as Dr. Stan Leung, who is known for his work in epilepsy, have started their research in the newly completed laboratories in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, while construction continues on the rest of the floor. The Baran family has also undertaken a multi-year commitment to fund a lecture series that will focus on the importance of medical science research and innovation for the well-being of all Canadians. Media contact: Kathy Wallis, Media Relations Officer, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry,
The University of Western Ontario, 519-661-2111 ext. 81136, Kathy.wallis@schulich.uwo.ca
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