Jeffrey Lurie Donates $50 Million to Launch Autism Research Institute in Philadelphia

Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie has donated $50 million to establish the Lurie Autism Institute in collaboration with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Penn Medicine, marking the largest single donation to U.S. academic medical centers focused on autism research across the lifespan. The institute aims to drive transformative discoveries for the more than 75 million people worldwide living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including focused research on genetics, brain science, and language. Lurie's commitment to autism research is deeply personal, inspired by his brother's diagnosis, and continues his longstanding advocacy through the Eagles Autism Foundation and annual fundraising events that have raised over $40 million. The initiative seeks to make Philadelphia a global hub for autism research by uniting scientists, clinicians, families, and donors to accelerate breakthroughs and improve care. Leaders from Penn Medicine and CHOP emphasize that this gift will leverage their combined expertise to advance critical research and transform what is possible for individuals and families affected by autism. This donation reflects Lurie's dedication not only to excellence on the football field but also to impactful philanthropy supporting the autism community.