We're celebrating our past and looking forward to the future as we mark 20 years of Women & Philanthropy at The Ohio State University. To date, the collective generosity of our members and friends has meant that we've been able to grant 10s of thousands of dollars each year to research partners across the university. 

Join us in creating even greater impact during this grant pool challenge!

This year's grant finalists include two powerhouse research teams, representing the College of Arts & Sciences and the College of Engineering.

BREATHE EASY: A new era of gene therapy for rare lung disease 
Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Tatiana Cuellar-Gaviria and her team are driven by a vision of a future in which women diagnosed with rare lung diseases like lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) are no longer told that there are no curative options. LAM is a devastating and underfunded lung disease that disproportionately affects women, leaving patients and families with limited therapies and profound uncertainty. Funding will be used to develop a new generation of safer, non-viral treatments using engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are tiny particles naturally released by our cells -the body's own delivery packages. By engineering these nano-scale bubbles to carry healthy genes directly to damaged lung tissue, we aim to deliver treatment with great precision and safety. This work seeks to transform how gene and drug therapies are delivered—prioritizing both effectiveness and long-term safety. At its core, this project is about restoring hope: translating scientific innovation into tangible possibilities for patients while simultaneously empowering women scientists through mentorship and leadership, ensuring that women are not only the focus of the research, but the drivers of the discoveries that will shape the future of women’s health.

ANTS AS BIOSENSORS: Innovative solutions for early cancer diagnosis
Assistant Professor of Evolution Ecology and Organismal Biology, Dr. Rachelle Adams and her team explore ants’ natural abilities to recognize chemical signals can be used to identify cancer types more effectively than current methods, potentially revolutionizing cancer diagnostics for underserved communities. This project will include art exhibitions, student posters and presentations, social media, and outreach events. These integrated educational and artistic experiences not only deepen public connections to science but also create highly visible opportunities to inspire continued philanthropic investment in our program. The funding from Women & Philanthropy will expand lab infrastructure and provide hands-on research experiences for undergraduates, weaving together science, art and mentorship. As the project unfolds, the fusion of innovative biology, artistic outreach and student training promises new possibilities for evidence-based cancer detection and a more accessible future in healthcare.

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When our community comes together, we can do even greater things. Consider making a gift of any amount today - every dollar you give will go directly to our grant partners. 

Awards will be made at our April 30 grant and 20th anniversary celebration event - more information and an invitation to all who donate will be sent out soon!