Greenwood Genetic Center Launches Education Endowment with Gift from Longtime Supporters Jim and Jane McDonald
November 5, 2025 – The Greenwood Genetic Center (GGC) and the Greenwood Genetic Center Foundation are pleased to announce the McDonald Education Endowment, a restricted fund that will support the ongoing operations and programming of the Center’s Education Division, including funding school trips by the Center’s mobile science labs, the Gene Machine and Helix Express. GGC’s Genetic Education Center student laboratory will be named in honor of Jim and Jane McDonald as recognition for their generosity.
Jim McDonald served on the Greenwood Genetic Center Board of Directors from 1993 to 2012, including nine years as chair. Upon his retirement from the board, he was honored with the title Director Emeritus in recognition of nearly three decades of dedicated service to the Center’s mission.
“The McDonalds’ commitment to education and their steadfast support of GGC have made an enduring impact,” said Dr. Steve Skinner, GGC’s President and CEO. “Their generosity ensures that students and educators will continue to benefit from hands-on learning experiences that foster understanding, discovery, and career exploration in genetics.”
Jim McDonald reflected on the honor, saying, “Jane and I have always believed in the power of education to change lives. The Greenwood Genetic Center holds a special place in our hearts, and we are proud to support its mission of inspiring curiosity, discovery, and compassion in every student they encounter.”
“The naming of the Student Laboratory is a fitting tribute to Jim and Jane’s extraordinary generosity and years of service to GGC,” said Cady Nell Keener, Executive Director of the GGC Foundation. “Their vision and support will continue to inspire students, including our future workforce, for years to come.”