$50 million philanthropic investment led by Quilter family leads to transforming Alzheimer’s Research at university
In a landmark moment for Alzheimer’s research and community health, the University of California, Irvine announced that the Quilter family has made a transformational $50 million lead gift to UCI MIND—the university’s renowned Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders.
Combined with approximately $30 million in new commitments inspired by their generosity, the gift propels UC Irvine into the planning phase for a cutting-edge research and care facility dedicated to combating Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
The philanthropic leadership comes from UC Irvine alumni Charles Quilter, M.A. ’06, Ph.D. ’10, and Ann Quilter, M.S. ’79, along with family members Patrick, Chris, Matt and Patty. Announced as the culminating gift of UC Irvine’s Brilliant Future campaign on October 4, the contribution now launches a bold new initiative to create a dedicated home for UCI MIND’s globally recognized work.
“We are profoundly grateful to the Quilter family for this remarkable lead gift,” said Chancellor Howard Gillman. “Their generosity—and the momentum it has inspired—strengthens UC Irvine’s mission to find cures for Alzheimer’s and related dementias.”
For the Quilters, philanthropy is woven deeply into their identity. Raised in a Marine Corps family that moved often, they learned early the importance of caring for one another and for those in need.
After settling in Laguna Beach more than 50 years ago, they became known for their civic involvement, entrepreneurial spirit, and longstanding commitment to improving community health and education.
Ann Quilter has been a passionate advocate for Alzheimer’s research for years. Her initial $5 million gift to UCI MIND—made in honor of her alma mater—was unexpectedly transformed when her family surprised her on her birthday by expanding the commitment to $50 million.
“UCI has always been part of who we are,” Ann said. “UCI MIND represents hope—for scientific breakthroughs and for the families who face Alzheimer’s every day. Our family is proud to strengthen the university that shaped our lives and continues to serve our community.”
The planned facility—Ann Hutchinson Quilter Hall—will bring together interdisciplinary researchers, clinicians, and community educators under one roof. The building will house research laboratories, clinical care spaces, and areas dedicated to public engagement and education. It will accelerate progress on innovative treatments, prevention strategies, and patient support programs.
“Inspired by Ann’s commitment and made possible through the extraordinary generosity of the Quilter family—especially Patrick and Chris—this new hall will be a hub for discovery and hope,” said Joshua Grill, director of UCI MIND. “Their vision enables science, care, and community to come together in powerful new ways.”
The Quilter family’s gift has galvanized support from across Orange County. New commitments from Harriet Harris, the Brethren Community Foundation, Michael K. Hayde and Laura Khouri, and Keith Swayne have brought total contributions for the new facility to nearly $80 million.
These donors, many of whom have personal connections to Alzheimer’s disease, have joined in supporting UCI MIND’s mission to accelerate the path toward prevention, treatments, and—ultimately—cures.
UCI MIND recently secured a $21 million renewal grant from the National Institute on Aging, reaffirming its status as a premier Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. The institute brings together more than 75 faculty members from over 25 departments, known for leadership in areas ranging from stem cell science to aging in diverse populations.
UCI MIND was the first center in the nation to establish dedicated research cores for induced pluripotent stem cells and special populations, including people with Down syndrome and the very oldest adults—groups critical to understanding how Alzheimer’s manifests differently across demographics.
Beyond research, UCI MIND is known throughout Orange County as a trusted source for education on brain health and aging. Its free public programs, digital resources, and community partnerships reach thousands each year. More than 6,000 Orange County residents have joined its innovative Consent-to-Contact Registry, facilitating over 10,000 research referrals and dramatically accelerating clinical studies.
As Alzheimer’s continues to affect millions—7.2 million Americans aged 65 and older—the need for world-class research and compassionate care has never been greater. In Orange County, the disease remains the third-leading cause of death.
Through vision, generosity, and leadership, the Quilter family has sparked the next chapter for UCI MIND—a chapter defined by collaboration, scientific innovation, and hope for families everywhere.
Their gift is more than a financial contribution; it is a community-wide call to action and a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when philanthropy and purpose align.