THE NEED
Academic 
Medicine 
Endowed chairs dramatically increase 
educator credibility and long-term impact 
A study of endowed chairholders in academic 
medicine found that 96% reported lasting 
gains in visibility, credibility, mentoring 
capacity and institutional impact — effects that 
continued long after their term ended.
Academic medicine is a major engine  
of lifesaving research 
Research conducted by academic medical 
professionals has contributed to significant 
national health gains. For example: 
l A 56% reduction in heart attack deaths 
between 1999-2020
l 3.8 million lives saved through advances  
in cancer research since 1991
Arizona faces one of the nation’s most 
urgent provider shortages — underscoring 
the need for academic investment
Arizona currently meets only 40% of its 
primary care physician need and will require 
1,941 additional PCPs by 2030 to keep pace 
with demand. 
“Our support is rooted in 
gratitude. We hope this investment 
strengthens our medical 
community and inspires others 
to join us in shaping the future of 
healthcare in Arizona.”
—JOHN AND PIT LUCKING
Endowed chairs are among the most 
prestigious forms of support in academic 
medicine. They help attract and retain top 
talent, accelerate research, and strengthen 
training for future physicians — including 
students of Arizona State University’s new 
John Shufeldt School of Medicine and Medical 
Engineering, where HonorHealth serves as the 
primary clinical affiliate. 
For Arizona, the impact is timely and urgent. 
With our state facing a severe provider shortage 
in the coming years, the Lucking family’s gift 
helps build a sustainable pipeline of skilled 
physicians who will care for our communities for 
generations. 
The Luckings’ leadership launches a new era for 
HonorHealth Foundation’s Patrons of Promise 
initiative, an endowed-chair matching challenge 
designed to expand academic medicine and 
accelerate innovation across our system. 
Their generosity sets the stage for the future 
and lights the way for others to follow. 
HonorHealth Foundation   9 

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