The Irene Heinz Given and John LaPorte Given Research Professorship of Ophthalmology II

psom shield placeholderThis Professorship was established in 2022, when the value of the endowment of the Irene Heinz Given and John LaPorte Given Research Professorship of Ophthalmology had increased sufficiently to support a second professorship.

The original Professorship was established in 1970 through the generosity of the Irene Heinz Given and John LaPorte Given Foundation, Inc. The chair exemplifies the consistent support and commitment of the Foundation toward the enrichment of programs that will ensure the finest in patient care, education, and research in the Department of Ophthalmology and at the Scheie Eye Institute at Penn Medicine. Irene Heinz Given (1871–1956) was the daughter of Henry J. Heinz (1844–1919), who created the well-known food company. John LaPorte Given (1871–1957) founded an advertising firm and later joined the H.J. Heinz Company as advertising counsel and member of the Board of Directors.

The Heinz family is well known for philanthropy and public service: Henry John Heinz III (1938–1991) was a U.S. Congressman and Senator. Irene and John Given provided significant support to many medical institutions and universities nationwide. 


Current Chairholder

The Irene Heinz Given and John LaPorte Given Research Professorship of Ophthalmology II is currently open.