WSU loses friend and donor, Paul Allen
Tuesday, October 16, 2018
PULLMAN, Wash. — Those who knew Paul G. Allen at Washington State University were taken with both shock and sadness when they learned of his death today.
Allen, 65, was a noted technologist, philanthropist, community builder, conservationist, musician and supporter of the arts who attended WSU from 1971-74. He died on Monday in Seattle, from complications of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
“Paul Allen was a man of great compassion and vision,” said Kirk Schulz, president of Washington State University. “He understood the power of philanthropy to improve the human condition in this country and around the world.”
In 2010, the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation donated $26 million to help create the Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health. The Allen School is unique among other global health programs because it focuses on the health of animals as a way to improve the health of people and the environment.
“We are extremely saddened to hear of the loss of our friend and legendary donor to Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Paul Allen,” said Bryan Slinker, dean of WSU’s veterinary college. “We extend our greatest sympathies to his family and friends both here and abroad.”
Guy Palmer, Regents Professor of Pathology and Infectious Diseases and senior director of Global Health worked closely with Allen and his Foundation to bring his vision to WSU.
“Paul provided the catalytic gift to establish the Paul G. Allen School for Global Animal Health at Washington State University,” said Palmer.
“Paul’s creative ability and scientific curiosity were well known. During my conversations with Paul, what was most striking was his compassion for people, especially those in vulnerable communities in Africa, and his desire to link science with the mission of improving lives. He was a keen listener and used his curiosity to drive change that will impact human lives far into the future.
“Paul’s passing is not only a loss to those who knew him but also to those who never met him but knew how his commitment changed their lives. His influence and foresight extended far beyond WSU and will resonate nationally and internationally forever.”
MEDIA CONTACTS:
· Phil Weiler, vice president for marketing and communications, 509-335-1221 or phil.weiler@wsu.edu.
· Charlie Powell, senior communications manager, 509-335-7073 or charlie_powell@wsu.edu.
