July 1, 2026, marks an important milestone for the CASSS community with the official launch of the CASSS Foundation for Science, a charitable organization dedicated to expanding access to scientific education, fostering global collaboration, and supporting the next generation of leaders in biopharmaceutical science.
Established as a 501(c)(3) affiliate of CASSS, the Foundation was created to further the sharing of resources, information, and best practices that advance scientific knowledge for the benefit of the biopharmaceutical field and the public at large. Through research, educational programs, meetings, and other charitable and scientific activities, the Foundation will support initiatives that strengthen the global scientific community and contribute to improved health outcomes worldwide.
The Foundation's work will focus on advancing equitable access to scientific knowledge and regulatory science, particularly through educational opportunities, global engagement, and support for emerging scientists and regulatory professionals. Areas of emphasis include expanding participation from low- and middle-income countries, supporting early-career investigators and leaders, and fostering meaningful scientific dialogue across industry, academia, and regulatory agencies.
"Scientific progress depends on collaboration and access to knowledge," said Mark Schenerman, President of the CASSS Foundation for Science Board of Directors. "Through the Foundation, we can invest in educational opportunities and global engagement initiatives that broaden participation in the scientific community and ultimately help improve health outcomes for patients around the world."
The Foundation will seek philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, foundations, and other organizations to fund programs that accelerate scientific advancement and strengthen the global biopharmaceutical ecosystem.
The inaugural Board of Directors includes:
- Mark Schenerman, President, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- Sarah Kennett, Vice President and Secretary, Genentech, a Member of the Roche Group
- Joe Kutza, Treasurer, Eli Lilly and Company
- Jared Auclair, Director, Northeastern University
- Michael Brenowitz, Director, Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- David Bergeson, Executive Director, CASSS
The CASSS Foundation for Science will begin accepting donations and philanthropic support on July 1, 2026. Contributions will help expand educational opportunities, strengthen global scientific collaboration, and support future leaders working to advance biopharmaceutical science and improve global health.
For more information about the Foundation, its mission, or opportunities to support its work, please visit CASSS Foundation for Science or contact David Bergeson at dbergeson@casss.org.