$100 million gift from philanthropist Herbert Wertheim spurs launch of inaugural Ambassador Council at Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology

The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, which was launched with a $100 million gift from philanthropist Herbert Wertheim has announced its inaugural Ambassador Council, a distinguished group of business and community leaders dedicated to expanding philanthropic support for the institute’s groundbreaking biomedical research and education programs.

The council is chaired by former Florida Chief Financial Officer and state Senator Jeff Atwater and vice-chaired by Marti M. LaTour, a former Pepsi executive, angel investor, and wealth adviser. Together, they will guide efforts to raise awareness and attract transformative giving to help accelerate scientific discoveries that improve human health.

“These impressive individuals bring deep expertise from government, finance, business, law, real estate, health care, and philanthropy,” said Patrick Griffin, Ph.D., the institute’s scientific director.

“Their leadership and passion will help us raise the funds needed to accelerate biomedical breakthroughs, expand STEM education, and make a real difference for patients awaiting cures.”

The council’s creation builds upon the vision and generosity of Dr. Herbert Wertheim, the institute’s namesake and founding benefactor. A pioneering inventor, scientist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Dr. Wertheim’s landmark gift o the University of Florida—among the largest in the university’s history—established The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology in Jupiter. His philanthropy reflects a lifelong belief in the power of science, education, and innovation to improve the human condition.

Dr. Wertheim, whose giving spans healthcare, vision research, and STEM education across leading universities, has long championed the idea that investing in knowledge yields the highest societal return.

His foundational support continues to empower the institute’s scientists to pursue novel therapies for cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, muscular dystrophy, and other devastating conditions.

“It’s inspiring to see how far this institute has come since its early days,” said Atwater.

“Now, with Dr. Wertheim’s extraordinary vision and the collective energy of this new council, we have a unique opportunity to elevate Florida’s role in shaping the future of medicine.”

Founded in 2004 and now part of the University of Florida, the institute unites world-class expertise in chemistry, biology, neuroscience, immunology, and technology to tackle the world’s most pressing biomedical challenges.