Peter T. Fox, M.D., director of the Research Imaging Center, visits with longtime donor Ruth McLean Bowman Bowers and President Francisco G. Cigarroa, M.D.
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The University of Texas System Board of Regents at the August meeting approved the naming of part of the Research Imaging Center (RIC) at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio for longtime donor Ruth McLean Bowman Bowers. More information will be available when a formal dedication ceremony is scheduled.

The Ruth McLean Bowman Bowers Cyclotron Wing will honor the longtime philanthropic support of Mrs. Bowers. The RIC is a world-class laboratory where scientists conduct biomedical imaging research, as well as provide imaging services to area patients.

$1.6 million gift
Mrs. Bowers’ most recent gift of $1.6 million made it possible for the Health Science Center to purchase a second cyclotron, a sophisticated imaging instrument, for the RIC. The donation also provided space for radiochemistry production laboratories and will enable the Health Science Center to attract additional imaging scientists. The cyclotron was delivered and installed in the RIC on Aug. 22. Fewer than five research centers in the United States have two cyclotrons, which places the university among the most prestigious, state-of-the-art imaging research centers in the country.

“We are so grateful to Mrs. Bowers for making it possible for us to escalate our imaging research so significantly. Her help will allow us to attract world-class scientists and conduct more high-level research in the future,” President Francisco G. Cigarroa, M.D., said.

Longtime donor
Since 1994, Mrs. Bowers has contributed $2 million to the Health Science Center. She is known throughout South Texas for her support of many civic and philanthropic causes. Among her honors are the San Antonio Annual Humanitarian Award in 2002, the League of Women Voters 2005 Stars of San Antonio award and induction into the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame in March.