Meet Our Donors
Jesse Brown is a man of science also driven by faith.
As a former medical technologist at Maryland's Fort Meade, he dedicated his career to finding more efficient ways to test for the deadly blood disorder sickle cell anemia. Much of Jesse's work included studying in the lab and writing scientific journal articles, but there was a certain leap of faith involved—and Jesse has that same faith in Kennedy Krieger.
"I have faith that with the right resources, Kennedy Krieger will increase the longevity and quality of life of the children who come here."
Jesse has seen the lifespan of children with sickle cell increase because of scientific advances. He hopes that with further research, advances will be made to help children with autism or on the autism spectrum, too.
Raised on a Virginia farm, Jesse is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a graduate of Morgan State University. He says it took him 16 years to earn his degree because he had to work and could only afford to attend school part-time. In 1965, he made his first $5 donation to Kennedy Krieger to pay tribute to the late President John F. Kennedy.
Today, Jesse is still donating and inspiring others. He has established a named endowment fund at Kennedy Krieger to support ongoing research and has named Kennedy Krieger in his will, ensuring his legacy will remain in perpetuity.
Jesse says his bequest is just another expression of his faith.
Thank you, Jesse. We are grateful for your steadfast belief in our mission!