$75 Million Gift to Revolutionize Veterinary Medicine and Human Health at UC Davis

April 25, 2026 - 02:14

In a landmark moment for animal care and biomedical research, UC Davis Chancellor Gary S. May announced a transformative $75 million gift from donors Kathy Chiao and Kenneth Hao. The contribution, revealed as the second largest individual donation ever made to the UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine, promises to reshape the intersection of veterinary science and human health.

The announcement came in a letter issued to the UC Davis community on April 24, where Chancellor May celebrated the historic donation. "Late yesterday we celebrated another historic gift: $75 million from Kathy Chiao and Kenneth Hao," May wrote, emphasizing the profound impact this funding will have on advancing both animal welfare and medical breakthroughs that directly benefit humans.

This generous investment will support cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, and innovative programs that bridge the gap between veterinary medicine and human healthcare. By studying diseases that affect both animals and humans, researchers can accelerate the development of treatments and cures. The gift underscores a growing recognition that animal health is intrinsically linked to human well-being, from understanding zoonotic diseases to developing new therapies for cancer, neurological disorders, and chronic conditions.

The donation positions UC Davis at the forefront of One Health initiatives, a collaborative approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment. With this funding, the veterinary school will expand its capacity to train future leaders, conduct groundbreaking studies, and deliver compassionate care to animals while driving discoveries that improve human lives. The Chiao-Hao gift represents a powerful commitment to creating a healthier future for all species.