LOS ANGELES, CA: The House Ear Institute (HEI), the renowned organization dedicated to the advancement of hearing science, will celebrate the completion of the Wallis Annenberg Research Center at a gala fundraiser, Wednesday, September 26 at the home of Rick and Tina Caruso, the evening's hosts. This marks the second year that the Carusos have played host to HEI's annual gala.
Emmy Award winning comedian and talk-show host Ellen Degeneres will perform and lead the live auction. "Malcolm in the Middle" star Jane Kaczmarek and her actor-husband, "The West Wing's" Bradley Whitford emcee. A special video narrated by Steve Martin will be featured. Dinner will be catered by Wolfgang Puck Catering.
In 2004, the House Ear Institute received a $10 million gift from Wallis Annenberg through the Annenberg Foundation to support its Campaign for Building A Sound Future. As Vice President of the Annenberg Foundation, Wallis Annenberg has been a strong supporter of organizations that enhance the community through the arts, culture and education. The gift to House Ear Institute builds on a significant commitment of the Foundation for providing access to healthcare and direct support to research and health facilities. In addition to offering philanthropic support to the Institute, Ms. Annenberg is a member of its Board of Trustees. The Wallis Annenberg Center will enable House Ear Institute scientists to expand upon current cell and molecular research and studies in the genetics of hearing loss and other areas. The Center will be an extension of the existing House Ear Institute building located near downtown Los Angeles. "The gift to the House Ear Institute from the Annenberg Foundation was significant in allowing us to expand our facility and take that important next step into new areas of hearing research," said James D. Boswell, CEO, House Ear Institute. "We are honored by Wallis' support and confidence in the Institute's future."
About the House Ear Institute
The House Ear Institute (HEI) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing hearing science through research and education to improve quality of life. HEI scientists are exploring the causes of auditory disorders at the cellular and molecular level as well as the complex ear-brain interaction, and reining the application of auditory implants, diagnostic techniques and hearing aids. For more information about the Institute and its "Campaign for Building a Sound Future," please call (213) 483-4431 or visit www.hei.org.
