Ralph Finerman

A nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank, the Milken Institute believes in the power of capital markets to solve urgent social and economic challenges and improve lives. To build a foundation of rigorous, independent research, it has assembled a respected team of economists, industry experts and scholars to analyze the issues and choices facing policymakers. It convenes a network of influential decision-makers from the private and public sectors to help transform ideas into action. The Milken Institute partners with global leaders in finance, business, government, science and philanthropy -- people with the vision and resources to make a significant impact.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF), formerly known as CaP CURE, is the world’s largest philanthropic source of support for prostate cancer research. PCF was founded in 1993 in order to discover better treatments and a cure for prostate cancer. As of 2012, PCF has raised more than $500 million for research and funded more than 1,600 research projects at nearly 200 institutions in 17 countries. In the past 2 years, 5 new drugs that extend the lives of men with metastatic prostate cancer have been approved by the FDA. PCF initiated and supported academic treatment science that fast-forwarded every one of these approvals.

The purpose of the Milken Family Foundation is to discover and advance inventive and effective ways of helping people help themselves and those around them lead productive and satisfying lives. The Foundation advances this mission primarily through its work in education and medical research. In EDUCATION, MFF is committed to: Strengthening the profession by recognizing and rewarding outstanding educators, and by expanding their professional leadership and policy influence. Attracting, developing, motivating and retaining the best talent to the teaching profession. Stimulating creativity and productivity among young people and adults through programs that encourage learning as a lifelong process. Building vibrant communities by involving people of all ages in programs that contribute to the revitalization of their community and to the well-being of its residents. In MEDICAL RESEARCH, MFF is committed to: Advancing and supporting basic and applied medical research–especially in the areas of prostate cancer and epilepsy–and recognizing and rewarding outstanding scientists in these areas. Supporting basic health care programs to assure the well-being of community members of all ages.