Memorial Giving and Planned Support at ICTP

ICTP was deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of Kenneth Charles Showalter (1946–2026) and Harry L. Swinney (1939–2026). As detailed in ICTP's recent article on The Legacy of Hands-on Science, both were co-founders of the highly successful Hands-on Research in Complex Systems School, which ICTP has hosted for the past 18 years. They were visionary researchers, passionate educators, and long-time friends of the Centre whose mentorship and warmth left an indelible mark on our global community.

In the wake of this loss, the family of Prof. Showalter reached out to ICTP late last month indicating that in lieu of flowers, they wanted to ask friends and colleagues to make memorial donations to ICTP in his honour. Everyone here at ICTP was sincerely touched by this gesture.

In reflecting on the generosity of Prof. Showalter's family, we realised that many in our community might not be aware that the practice of memorial donations and planned giving are accessible options to support ICTP's mission. While these practices are common in the non-profit sector in the U.S., they offer a meaningful way for our supporters worldwide to build a lasting scientific legacy.

Ways to Create a Lasting Impact

Beyond direct memorial gifts honouring a colleague or loved one, supporters can contribute through planned giving, including:

• Bequests: Including ICTP in your last will and testament.
• Beneficiary Designations: Naming ICTP as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy or retirement plan.
• Special Memorial Funds: Directing family, friends, and peers to support ICTP in memory of a deceased loved one.

These gifts ensure that future generations of scientists continue to find opportunity, world-class mentorship, and research support at ICTP.

Anyone who would like more information on any of these options, may contact Amy Baldonieri, Fundraising and Institute Advancement Officer at abaldoni@ictp.it or +39 040 2240 4179.

If you would like to make a donation in memory of Prof. Showalter or Swinney - or any loved one or colleague, you may do so here. To ensure your contribution is properly acknowledged as a memorial, please send us a brief note at advancement@ictp.it indicating whom you wish to honour.