Sight + Sound, Fall 2025
The Eye & Ear Foundation Board has taken action to support funding cuts by creating the Al Muse Recovery Fund.
At the meeting, the Board paused to remember Al Muse, a founding member of the Eye & Ear Foundation, who passed away in May. He was also a former chair and the longest serving Board member.
Following a Board meeting discussion about “significant reports of Federal indirect cost cuts and grant cancellations,” Board member George Fechter spoke with fellow Board member Larry Gumberg. They promptly decided they wanted to make a statement to faculty and staff “that we are and always have been full partners with the Departments,” and while we wouldn’t be able to make up for the enormity of loss, we could do something and show solidarity,” Fechter said.
Gumberg agreed, and Board members E. Ron Salvitti, MD, Chuck Brodbeck, and Jeff Markel soon joined. In short order, a commitment was made for over $200K. “This will be part of a larger initiative which is ongoing to make a difference,” Fechter said.
It was decided that the fund would have special meaning by bearing Al Muse’s name. The self-appointed committee vote was unanimous, and his family has agreed to the naming. “Al would have embraced our action, and, I am sure, have been modest about his name being on the fund,” Fechter said.
“Our Board involves long service and deep friendships,” Fechter said. “We are unwavering in our dedication to providing resources to advance science to address the human condition. We look forward to a day of restored funding and uninterrupted science. In the meantime, we are doing all we can to minimize the impact. That’s who we are.”