Allen Levine is less interested in research for its own sake. “We want to solve real problems,” says the dean of CFANS. “We’re dealing with the health of the air, water, and land – each of which can impact human health.”

While agricultural schools traditionally have focused on food production, the U’s new CFANS – formed by combining diverse environmental disciplines – can take a broader view. One example: “We’re looking for healthy bioactive components in certain foods to promote nutrition and possibly prevent some cancers,” says Levine.

The Deborah E. Powell Center for Women’s Health also encourages healthier living. Through clinical care, research, and outreach, the center puts a statewide focus on women’s health issues. Women are responsible for the health of most families, so when they’re in tune to health matters, it leads to healthier communities overall.

“With so much research focused on men’s health, it’s important to increase our understanding and raise awareness of issues that are more likely to affect women – or affect us differently,” says donor Patricia Kane, ’71 B.A., ’77 R.N. Kane is a major supporter and participant in outreach activities. “It gives me such satisfaction to stay connected to an organization I believe in,” she says. “And I’m educating myself on topics that relate to me.”