Jimmy Peterson definitely has a soft spot for UCI. The former CEO of 18 years for Microsemi, checked into UCI Health’s Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center in 2017 with stage 4 melanoma. Today, Peterson is cancer-free.
“UCI saved my life,” Peterson says.
In an effort to fuel future medical discoveries and expand the reach of UCI Health, Peterson and his wife, Sheila, recently agreed to chair the university’s $2 billion Brilliant Future fundraising campaign.
“UCI’s academic and research prowess makes it one of the greatest resources on the planet. Its impact extends far beyond Orange County,” says Jimmy.
The Petersons, who live in San Juan Capistrano and have seven adult children, are known for their contributions to various local nonprofits. On National Philanthropy Day in 2011, they were honored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Orange County chapter as “Outstanding Philanthropists” for their commitment to Orange County children.
“I am delighted that the Petersons, who embody what it means to be community leaders, are giving so generously of their time and talent as our campaign chairs,” says UCI Chancellor Howard Gillman. “Their leadership and support enhance our ability to improve lives in our region, across our state, and around the globe.”
The couple also serves as trustees of the UCI Foundation, and Jimmy is a member of its executive committee. In addition, Sheila chairs the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute advisory board. And, both of them sit on several leadership councils across UCI.
“The Brilliant Future campaign will bring UCI, its alumni, and Orange County residents and businesses together,” Sheila says. “There is so much for everyone to get involved with.”
Susan and Henry Samueli, whose record-breaking gift in 2017 created the Susan and Henry Samueli College of Health Sciences, are serving as honorary chairs for UCI Health in the campaign. About half of the $2 billion goal is earmarked for strengthening UCI’s healthcare enterprise, partly by expanding the college and clinical facilities.
Other noteworthy projects include constructing research buildings, a new center to house multiple student success programs, and a world-class museum and institute to showcase the university’s acclaimed collection of California art.
The campaign will focus on four overarching objectives: advancing the American dream for students, transforming healthcare and wellness, accelerating world-changing research, and exploring the human experience – all through private donations. Currently, the Brilliant Future philanthropic campaign has tallied $776 million toward its $2 billion goal.
“UCI’s mission is to change lives for the better, and a vital part of accomplishing that involves support from community partners, grateful patients, alumni, and parents who share our vision,” says Gillman.
“No matter what issue you care about – climate change, health, the arts, clean energy, educating the next generation – UCI is working on it,” says Brian T. Hervey, president of the UCI Foundation and Vice Chancellor for university advancement and alumni relations. “Philanthropic funding will allow us to set our sights on carrying out UCI’s ambitious strategic plan despite the realities of state funding.”
About the University of California, Irvine: Founded in 1965, UCI is the youngest member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. Known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation, and anteater mascot, the campus has produced three Nobel laureates and is led by Chancellor Howard Gillman. With more than 36,000 students and offering 222 degree programs, it’s located in one of the world’s safest and most economically vibrant communities. It is also Orange County’s second-largest employer, contributing $5 billion annually to the local economy. For more information on contributing to a Brilliant Future, call 949.824.0142 or visit BrilliantFuture. UCI.edu