THE GLAUCOMA FOUNDATION RECEIVES MAJOR EARMARKED $2.5 MILLION GIFT FROM THE HERBERT SIMON FAMILY FOUNDATION

NEW YORK, June 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Glaucoma Foundation has announced a major endowment gift of $2.5 million from the Herbert Simon Family Foundation to establish the Herbert Simon Chair in Glaucoma Research and Innovation. The endowment will support the work of Alon Harris, MS, PhD, FARVO, an internationally renowned leading clinical scientist in the field of ophthalmology and glaucoma.

Dr. Harris's work extends from the development of novel diagnostic and monitoring approaches for managing glaucoma to artificial intelligence and digital twin applications that are enhancing our understanding of disease progression.

He serves as Co-Director of the Barry Family Center for Ophthalmic Artificial Intelligence & Human Health and Vice Chair of International Research and Academic Affairs at Mount Sinai Hospital. In addition, he is the Director of the Ophthalmic Vascular Diagnostic and Research Program, and holds dual professorships in Ophthalmology and Artificial Intelligence and Human Health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.

"Glaucoma has touched my family in a personal way and I know how critical early detection and innovative treatment can be," explained Herbert Simon. "Supporting Dr. Alon Harris's work is not just an investment in science – it's a commitment to saving sight and improving lives. I'm proud that our family's name will be tied to someone whose passion and impact are so profound."

Acknowledging the new endowment gift, Elena Sturman, the Glaucoma Foundation's President and CEO said: "We are thrilled to receive this transformative gift – the largest individual gift in TGF's 41-year history. It not only recognizes the impact Dr Harris's work has had on the field of glaucoma research, but assures that his innovative work will continue to shape future directions in the fight against this devastating disease."

"I extend my sincere thanks and gratitude to the Simon family for their most generous support of my work going forward, "says Dr. Harris. "I am honored that they have entrusted me to carry out our shared commitment to research and innovation that can save sight and improve lives."

About The Glaucoma Foundation

Since 1984, The Glaucoma Foundation has worked to identify, encourage, and fund scientific research into the potentially blinding disease of glaucoma, with the goal of eradicating vision loss and blindness from glaucoma. Through education and outreach, we strive to be a valuable resource to improve the lives of those affected by the disease.

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SOURCE The Glaucoma Foundation