2025 Partners in philanthropy event celebrates extraordinary service and visionary leadership

The Cornerstone Award recognizes individuals whose partnership, volunteer involvement, and generosity have been instrumental in the success of a single Indiana University campaign or a fundraising initiative for a campus, program, or school.

A-Lan Reynolds’ goal is to enhance the IU Astronomy Department’s reach and reputation. She serves as an Astronomy Department advisory board member, and she and her late husband, John have been invaluable to the growth of the department.

Inspired by John's positive IU experience, their support began in 1984 and includes the WIYN Telescope and a planned gift to establish the John and A-Lan Reynolds Chair in Astronomy, an astronomy endowment, and travel funding for undergraduate students. It will also continue to fund a post-baccalaureate fellowship, a faculty research fund, and additional initiatives. These will complement the McCreery Travel Award honoring John’s grandfather, the man who “introduced him to the stars.” A-Lan hosts rigorous student field science programs at the Reynolds Field Station in New Mexico. 

Jane and Jay Jorgensen are pillars of Indiana University philanthropy. Their support extends over twenty areas within IU, traversing academics, culture, and engagement and belonging initiatives. The Jorgensen Family Global Gateway Scholarship provides future teachers with international experiences, while their endowed internship for the university and support for the Ferguson International Center and IULMIA Fellowship highlight their forward-thinking approach.

Jane, an IU alumna, serves the IU Foundation Board and is a founding member of the Women’s Philanthropy Leadership Council and the Queer Philanthropy Circle. The Jorgensen’s visionary generosity strengthens IU's mission, making them deserving Keystone Award recipients.

The Herman B Wells Visionary Award honors individuals who have shown an understanding of the power of philanthropy through their lifetime commitment of time, skill and donations.

Stephanie and Craig Brater embody the spirit of service and philanthropy. Dr. Brater advanced medical education and research as the IU School of Medicine dean, and he now serves as vice president for programs of the Walther Cancer Foundation and president of the Regenstrief Foundation.

Passionate about IU's partnership in the AMPATH (Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare) program, the couple has fostered deep connections in Kenya and supported initiatives including the Sally Test Child Life Center. In 2019, they created the Brater Family Scholarship in Global Health, providing life-changing international experiences for students. We're grateful for their dedication to IU. 

The Simon family has established a distinguished legacy at IU characterized by transformative philanthropy that spans several decades and influences a wide range of fields, including cancer research, the humanities, and the arts. Mel and Herb Simon initiated this legacy in the 1980s and have since carried it forward through three generations.

Cynthia Simon Skjodt has been instrumental in renovating Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall and generously supports scholarships, the arts, and endowed chairs. The Herbert Simon Family Foundation has made significant contributions to initiatives such as the McKinney Midwest Climate Project and various community engagement programs.

Mel’s substantial gift to the IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center established the Joshua Max Simon Cancer Research Fund, enhancing both research capabilities and patient care. Furthermore, 10 family members collaborated to develop Simon Hall, a state-of-the-art interdisciplinary science building.

The family’s dedication to literacy is illustrated by Herb’s endowment of the IU-Indianapolis libraries deanship. Through their collective vision and generosity, the Simon family continues to profoundly impact IU, ensuring its growth and excellence for future generations.