Geoffrey Beene, a New York fashion designer who died in 2004 at the age of 77, has left $10 million of his estate to New York Citys The Animal Medical Center, an veterinary hospital, research center and teaching institution.
Guy Pidgeon, chief executive officer of the facility, said Beene was a nature and animal lover and was particularly fond of The AMC because of his pet dogs. He had supported the animal care institution during his lifetime, as well.
Beenes bequest raises the endowment of The AMC to $50 million, according to Board chair Cynthia Phipps. The AMC said a portion of the gift will be designated for the acquisition of the latest diagnostic technology, such as a linear accelerator, as well as physical improvements to the client waiting area.
The enhanced endowment will also allow the continuation of programs that underwrite the routine care of companion animals for the indigent elderly and the visually-impaired; counseling for owners of ill or deceased pets; and pet outreach visits to nursing homes, senior centers and schools for blind or autistic children.
The AMC will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2010.
Posted: Jan. 30, 2006, 3 p.m. EST