Hungarian-born Penczner and his German wife, Jolanda, were part of a vibrant community of Central European expats in Memphis. This group also included Dr. Gabor Tigyi, a fellow Hungarian and chair of the Department of Physiology at UT Health Science Center. Physiology is the fundamental science of how organs and the body work.

The Penczners were fascinated by Tigyi’s work and entrusted him with their estate. They created two legacy funds aimed at upholding research excellence and providing early-career support in the physiology department. Through their generous bequests, the Penczners champion young scientists and ensure opportunities for often non-native U.S. scholars in Memphis.

Their legacy is safeguarded by the Community Foundation, ensuring their charitable impact will continue for generations to come. To learn more about the Penczners’ philanthropic efforts, visit cfgm.org/wkno.