Dawn's Light Foundation gift to create new clinical trials space at SLU

Chris and Jenny Carlson have a deeply personal connection to genetic research. Chris spent more than 15 years as a researcher at Fred Hutch Cancer Center, where his work focused on uncovering how genetic variations contribute to common diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological conditions. That scientific lens became even more meaningful when a family member was diagnosed with an Inherited Retinal Disease (IRD) in 2021. Since then, the Carlsons have dedicated themselves to championing research, expanding access to clinical trials, and strengthening the therapeutics and treatment pipeline for individuals affected by IRDs.

The Carlsons established Dawn’s Light Foundation, named in honor of Jenny’s mother—a woman they lovingly describe as a “guardian of lost causes.” Following their family member’s diagnosis, they felt a renewed urgency to support research that could meaningfully change the future for IRD patients and accelerate the development of new treatments.

During the last two years, their philanthropic leadership has played a pivotal role in advancing IRD research within our department. Building on that momentum, the department recently approached the Carlsons with a vision for a transformative partnership: strengthening our clinical trials infrastructure and expanding the physical and personnel capacity needed to support a rapidly growing research portfolio.

“With the support of the Dawn’s Light Foundation, we have an extraordinary opportunity to transform our clinical trials infrastructure,” said Dr. Russell Van Gelder, Bucey Chair in Ophthalmology. “Clinical trials are the engine of medical advancement, and in recent years our department has seen remarkable growth. Yet our ability to sustain and scale this critical work is increasingly limited by inadequate space and the need for a more robust, adaptable research team.”

Thanks to a transformational gift from Dawn’s Light Foundation in November, a 1,100-square-foot shelled space in the South Lake Union F building—adjacent to research laboratories and one floor above clinic operations—is now being converted into a purpose-built clinical trials center. Opening this summer, the new facility will house up to 10 staff members and optimize patient care, study coordination, and research activities. This enhanced infrastructure will ensure that Ophthalmology’s clinical trials program can continue to pursue cutting-edge discoveries and bring emerging therapies to patients more efficiently.

“Chris and Jenny’s commitment to advancing research and patient care is making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve,” said Dr. Van Gelder. “Support like theirs enables us to push the boundaries of innovation and improve outcomes for individuals facing vision loss.”

If you would like to help strengthen our growing clinical trials program, click here to make a gift of support.