Callahan Foundation Pledges $2.5 Million to Case Western Reserve University for New Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Callahan Foundation Pledges $2.5 Million to Case Western Reserve University for New Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building

Cleveland, OH – January 31, 2024 – The Callahan Foundation, dedicated to helping nonprofits in the arts, higher education and social services, is excited to announce its pledge of $2.5 million to Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) to support the construction of its new Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Building (ISEB). Expected to open in fall 2026, the ISEB represents a historic investment in the university’s research enterprise and is a significant step forward in advancing CWRU President Eric W. Kaler’s priorities: to elevate academic excellence, expand its research enterprise, and enhance community engagement.

The 189,000-square-foot building, located on the Case Quad, will address the university’s need for additional research space and foster interdisciplinary collaborations focused on solving the world’s most pressing challenges.

This gift from the Callahan Foundation for the construction of the ISEB also will support the university’s efforts to expand its research enterprise by:

• Enhancing administrative leadership, infrastructure and support;
• Improving the quality and amount of research space; and
• Fostering a talent pipeline for increasing enrollment of innovative students and faculty seeking research opportunities.

The Callahan family’s enduring partnership with Case Western Reserve University spans generations, from alumni to trustees, contributing to the University’s legacy. “The Callahan Foundation is honored to champion the University in this transformative project,” said Tim Callahan, President and Executive Director of the Callahan Foundation. “It’s more than a building – it’s a catalyst for advancing education, research, and innovation in Cleveland and beyond. If we can contribute in even a small way to shaping the future, we consider it a meaningful commitment to our community’s growth and success.”

The grant comes at a pivotal time for CWRU, coinciding with the university’s bicentennial celebrations. 

“Case Western Reserve University is a top-tier research university and the ISEB will play a critical role in defining our future, particularly in our research that improves the world and the lives of its people,” Kaler said. “The generous support from the Callahan Foundation will contribute a great deal to our ability to perform this groundbreaking research. We are truly grateful to the Foundation for its visionary commitment to creating opportunities and fostering innovation at Case Western Reserve.”

About The Callahan Foundation

The Callahan Foundation is a family foundation based in Cleveland, Ohio, that provides support for Northeast Ohio nonprofits to add value to the entire region. Started in 1968 by Francis Joseph “Joe” Callahan and his wife, Mary Elizabeth Callahan, the Callahan Foundation is primarily focused on art and higher education grants, as well as the funding of numerous social service endeavors. Since its founding, the foundation has awarded more than $15 million in grants to nonprofit organizations throughout the area that demonstrate superior entrepreneurial leadership and a track record of value creation.

# # #