A Legacy of Hope: Peter and Raydene St. Clair’s Commitment to Driving Discovery Forward

A Legacy of Hope: Peter and Raydene St. Clair's Commitment to Driving Discovery Forward

For Peter and Raydene St. Clair, supporting the future of science at La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) is deeply personal. Their legacy gift reflects a profound belief in the power of immunology to transform human health—and a hope that future generations may one day experience a world free from devastating disease.

"Being able to help support the goal of Life Without Disease seemed the most wonderful gift to leave to our children and grandchildren." — Peter and Raydene St. Clair

That conviction reflects their deep confidence in LJI's unique ability to advance this vision on a global scale. As they see it, LJI stands apart among research institutions: "More than any other organization we've seen, LJI has the leadership, brilliant scientists, enthusiasm, creative collaboration, and worldwide connections to make this dream a reality."

Inspired by Discovery

Introduced to LJI over a decade ago by longtime advisory board member and friend David Anderson, the St. Clairs quickly became inspired by what they discovered. After attending a community lecture, they were struck by the extraordinary breadth and impact of the Institute's work—from its role in the San Diego biomedical community to its collaborations with leading research institutions around the world.

"We were astounded," they recall. "The discoveries being made at LJI have immediate translational applications to develop vaccines and treat cancer, diabetes, heart disease, immune disorders, and genetic disease."

The people behind the science proved just as meaningful. The St. Clairs formed an immediate connection with LJI leadership and were inspired by the passion and dedication of the Institute's scientists—especially the promising early-career researchers advancing breakthrough discoveries through LJI's SPARK program.

Supporting the Scientists of Tomorrow

Over the years, the St. Clairs have followed the work of several scientists whose research deeply resonated with them, including Dr. Sara Landeras-Bueno's development of antivirals for Ebola, Dr. Daniela Weiskopf's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Tom Riffelmacher's innovative work in heart disease, and Tanner Michaelis' groundbreaking research exploring how T cells may help protect against ALS progression.

"It has been a great privilege to help and support these amazing scientists."

Peter and Raydene are longtime supporters of the Tullie and Rickey Families SPARK Awards for Innovations in Immunology program, or as it has become more fondly known: SPARK. SPARK is a philanthropically-funded, multi-year program designed to support early-career scientists to catalyze bold new ideas. "So many SPARK award recipients go on to open their own labs around the world, continue leading in their fields, and profoundly influence the future of immunology," Peter and Raydene share. This kind of translational research is what keeps them invested in the program, and in LJI as a whole, year after year.

A Gift for Future Generations

For the St. Clairs, leaving a legacy through their bequest to LJI is ultimately about hope. Hope for healthier lives, stronger treatments, and scientific breakthroughs that change what is possible for generations to come. Their decision to make a legacy gift reflects a deep belief that investing in discovery today can create a healthier future for those who follow.

"There can be few goals more important than achieving Life Without Disease for our children, our grandchildren, and the world."

That vision of a healthier future is what continues to inspire their support of LJI's work. "Helping support the pioneering work of LJI through our legacy gift is a blessing for us," they share. "Knowing that LJI will impact health in such vital areas of immunology gives us a sense of hope for the future."

Through their generosity, Peter and Raydene St. Clair are helping ensure that LJI can continue leading the field of immunology—bringing better vaccines, treatments, and cures closer to reality, and advancing a future shaped by the promise of Life Without Disease.

If you are interested in exploring leaving a legacy gift to LJI, please don't hesitate to reach out. We would be honored to connect with you to discuss the giving vehicles that fit your philanthropic goals and the impact that your gift will have at LJI.