January 24, 2023 | Office of the President & Chief Research Officer

Dear Teammates,

Our capacity to forge new paths in pediatric research relies upon the ingenuity and dedication of our talented research teams, our expansive landscape of collaborators, and a robust, ready supply of resources and technology. Those foundations of our research activities are, in turn, reliant upon donor advocates whose generosity makes possible the discoveries, devices, and treatments that are improving and extending the lives of children. To me, our donors are special angel investors who can see past the inherent risks in investing in research and discovery to imagine the high returns on investment that are children’s healthier futures. They are also, by extension, integral members of our team. This critical donor network includes the Children’s Research Fund, which through a variety of philanthropic activities, has raised tens of millions to fund research staff and programs, equipment, and infrastructure at Manne Research Institute. I’d like to introduce you to two of these members, Devanee Washington, MS, RDN, and her husband, Alex, who have dedicated their time and effort to the Children’s Research Fund, most recently overseeing the annual fundraising campaign and serving as co-chairs of the 2022 Children’s Ball.

The Washingtons launched their journey with the Children’s Research Fund in 2017. That’s when Devanee joined the Children’s Research Fund board, and she and Alex have been dedicated supporters ever since. For Devanee, it has been a rewarding experience, enabling her to witness the passion of the Manne Research Institute researchers, hear the stories that motivate them, and learn about their scientific discoveries. She’s extremely encouraged each time there’s an advancement or a breakthrough, knowing that these bring us closer to helping more children and their families. 

Devanee and Alex are also inspired by the Patrick M. Magoon Institute for Healthy Communities’ innovative efforts to empower underserved Chicago communities with research-based health strategies, prioritize mental health and food access in these communities, and meet people in their space as a way to build the trust and relationships that will ultimately maintain momentum for progress. They’re extremely proud to support this work.

To grow our hospital’s research funding base, we need to consistently introduce potential donor advocates and angel investors to our work. As we expand our communications channels and donor outreach, the heart of these efforts comes down to researchers sharing their challenges and successes. In Devanee’s own words: “Share and share often. Talk about the work that is happening that makes a difference. Lurie Children’s is full of inspiring stories and many people we talk to already have a Lurie connection. The work is a pillar in our community, and our researchers are the best.”

Know that in Devanee, Alex, and every one of our donors is a champion of you, your work, and our research institute. Their generosity touches everything in our organization, but we have made an impact on them as well. Please continue to share your research journeys and allow your work to inspire others.

With kindness and respect,

Pat