David and Windi Grimes
A love of the Arts. Support for research and medical advances. An appreciation of the critical role of technology transfer. Their interest in and support of the UT System is truly an investment in Texas' future.
Beginning Their Journey
Ten years ago, after meeting her on a blind date in Houston, David Grimes married his wife Anne ("Windi") Phillips, who grew up on the storied Four Sixes Ranch in north Texas. He was founder and president of Grimes Energy Company, and she had established the Houston office of the venerable art auction house Sotheby’s. Since that time, the couple has devoted much time and effort to philanthropy in general and UT in particular.
David’s support centers on The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Windi is partial to museums such as the Blanton Museum of Art at UT Austin, where she serves on the Board of Directors. "Museums are places of continuing education for people of all ages," says Windi. "And, UT's medical institutions have a major impact on everyone in our state and beyond," David adds.
Looking to the Future
They also serve together on the Chancellor’s Council, with David a member of the Executive Committee. Their special interest is technology transfer. "We're proud to be part of UT and its mission and just want it to always increase in stature and impact," they explain. "Technology transfer from our many institutions has tremendous potential. Not only can it deliver a significant return to the institutions and the state, but if done right, it can create high-impact business growth in a variety of areas."
Considerations like that help make Windi and David Grimes very willing supporters of higher education. "It's a part of expressing who you are and what's important to you. But it is also a way of expressing appreciation for what an institution has done for you, your family or someone close to you," David notes. "Providing life-enriching experiences for others has a way of perpetuating a culture of giving that is unique to our country and certainly present in the Lone Star State."