Dear Members and Friends,

Each spring, we pause to reflect on what your generosity has made possible. In 2025, private support strengthened the National Academies’ ability to respond to urgent national questions, cultivate the next generation of scientific and engineering leaders, and advance evidence-based guidance that serves the public good.  

Philanthropy plays a distinctive role in our work. It provides flexibility when new challenges emerge. It accelerates innovation when timeliness matters. And it sustains long-term investments in people and ideas that strengthen the nation’s scientific enterprise. 

Over the past year, that partnership was evident in many ways. From enabling rapid expert consultations on emerging scientific and health challenges,  to expanding pathways into engineering for students and emerging leaders, your support enabled the Academies to operate with rigor, independence, and responsiveness.  

At the same time, with your support, we are investing in the leadership needed to sustain and extend this impact across the National Academies. Initiatives that cultivate the next generation of leaders, remove barriers to participation, and provide flexible resources for incoming presidents ensure that the mission continues with strength and clarity. As leadership evolves, our commitment to independent advice, scientific integrity, and public service remains constant. 

Your generosity sustains that commitment. On behalf of the Office of Development and the entire National Academies community, thank you for helping transform ideas into action and knowledge into progress. 

With gratitude,

Alison Purvis
Chief Development Officer