Amy Davis Endowed Chair Advances Women’s Diabetes Research
Written by Becca Schjodt
Feb 27, 2026
On February 3, 57 guests – including campus leadership, faculty and benefactors – gathered in the Reilly Fireplace Lounge of the Anschutz Health Sciences building to celebrate the establishment of the Amy Davis Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research for Women. The generosity of the Patten-Davis Foundation, a longstanding philanthropic partner of CU Anschutz, made the creation of this chair possible. Jane Reusch, MD, was honored as the inaugural chair holder.
The theme of the evening was centered on gratitude – gratitude for the philanthropy that makes breakthroughs in health and medicine a reality and for the expert physician-scientists who lead this pioneering work.
Vice Chancellor of Advancement Scott Arthur opened the program by touching on this theme as he welcomed those in attendance. Chancellor Don Elliman then highlighted the significance of the Foundation’s investment and its transformative impact on women living with diabetes.
John Sampson, MD, PhD, MHSc, MBA, dean of the CU Anschutz School of Medicine, spoke on the collaboration between the school and the Ludeman Family Center for Women’s Health Research, noting their shared commitment to improve women’s health.
“Housing this chair within the Ludeman Center deepens a partnership where both entities thrive,” he said. “Together, we are pushing the boundaries of discovery.”
Dean Sampson then introduced Judy Regensteiner, PhD, director and co-founder of the Ludeman Center, who reflected on the Center’s focus on cardiovascular disease and diabetes, two crucial areas with a history of being understudied.
Dr. Regensteiner also emphasized how Dr. Reusch’s leadership, mentorship and dedication to sex-differences research make her an ideal inaugural chair holder.
“Jane is my longest research partner and friend,” she said. “Because of her dedication, I know this chair will be put to good use.”
Dr. Reusch then addressed attendees, expressing gratitude to her family, colleagues and the trustees of the Patten-Davis Foundation. She underscored the importance of philanthropy in moving women’s diabetes research forward and shared what this prestigious appointment will make possible for her work.
At the conclusion of the event, Chancellor Elliman presented Dr. Reusch with an honorary medallion and offered a toast to mark this promising new chapter for women’s health.
