$13.5 million from Hugh H. Hoffman estate supports ALS research and patient care
A $13.5 million gift from the estate of Hugh H. Hoffman, MBA ’63, will revolutionize research and patient care related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic at the University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute.
A personal connection
Hoffman was passionate about supporting ALS because his father, Herbert H. Hoffman, died from the disease. Hoffman was a long-time supporter of ALS research and patient care through several organizations.
Hoffman’s nephews, Bert and Steve Bullock, co-executors of his estate, were instrumental in making this gift a reality.
“We wanted to honor our uncle’s legacy and his intentional long-time support of families impacted by ALS and the Greater Cincinnati community,” they said. “We’re confident that UC and UC Health have the talent, leadership and vision to transform the future of research and care of ALS.”
According to ALS United Ohio, more than 5,600 individuals in the U.S. are diagnosed each year: 15 new cases a day.
“I think Mr. Hoffman’s personal connection highlights the impact of watching someone suffer with this disease,” said Dr. Neel. “It will change you. This gift is about service and taking care of your fellow human beings.”
“Our institute is already a leader and respected collaborator among ALS experts in our region and across the country,” said Brett M. Kissela, MD, MS, executive vice dean, senior associate dean for clinical research, chief of research services for UC Health, Albert Barnes Voorheis Endowed Chair and professor in the department of neurology and rehabilitation medicine. “Philanthropy—and this incredible gift in particular—allows us to accelerate our tripartite mission of patient care, research and education.”
About Hugh Hoffman
The youngest son of Herbert H. Hoffman and Madeline Rowe, Hoffman was a fourth-generation Cincinnatian whose family prioritized giving to the community. News of Hoffman’s $56 million bequest to the University of Cincinnati was announced in September 2023. This extraordinary endowment created the Hoffman Honors Scholar Program and supports student-athletes.
Together, Hoffman’s $56 million bequest and this $13.5 million donation represent one of the most significant gifts in the history of UC and UC Health.
The UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute investment supports Next, Now: The Campaign for Cincinnati, the comprehensive fundraising effort for UC and UC Health.
Advancing neurological care
The UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute is a collaboration between UC Health and the UC College of Medicine, with a clear purpose to deliver hope to patients and families facing anything from routine to complex brain, spine and nerve conditions. As the region’s only adult academic-based neuroscience program, the UC Gardner Neuroscience Institute is home to more than 125 subspecialty-trained physicians and researchers who provide unparalleled access to comprehensive patient-focused care, driven by the latest innovations and leading-edge research.
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