Oklahoma wheat producers donate $300,000 to strengthen OSU wheat genetics research chair

Oklahoma State University recently announced a $300,000 joint gift from the Oklahoma Wheat Commission (OWC) and the Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation (OWRF) to bolster funding for the organizations’ currently funded wheat genetics research chair at OSU.  Once fully matched dollar-for-dollar by T. Boone Pickens’ $100 million chair match commitment, as well as the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, the gift will provide $1.2 million of impact in endowed funds.
The gift will be used to improve and release competitive new wheat varieties in Oklahoma. Organization officials commented that since the world has yet to embrace the use of biotech for wheat production as they have for corn, soybeans and cotton, very few private dollars are being invested in improved wheat genetics.  Therefore, the groups felt it was important for land-grant institutions to have the necessary tools to improve wheat varieties.  This gift will allow OSU to significantly enhance their wheat genetics program.
“The response from our alumni and friends has exceeded our wildest expectations,” said OSU President Burns Hargis.  “Inspired by Boone Pickens’ astounding generosity, donors answered the call to make a lasting difference and open a new and exciting chapter at OSU. We sincerely appreciate what the Wheat Commission and Wheat Research Foundation are doing for OSU academics and research.”