Taner Halicioglu exemplifies all of these qualities and more. Taner’s contributions to philanthropy have been nothing short of transformational. In 2017, he made a landmark $75 million gift to establish the Halicioglu Data Science Institute at UC San Diego, ensuring the advancement of data science education and research. He expanded that commitment in 2024 with a $25 million pledge to help build the Triton Center, a central hub for students, alumni, and visitors. He founded the Halicioglu Family Foundation, which supports causes ranging from COVID-19 relief to animal welfare. He also launched the Data Science Alliance, a nonprofit that uses data science and AI to drive meaningful change in communities.
Taner’s passion for exploration extends beyond Earth. Since 2014, he has been a dedicated supporter of The Planetary Society, making nearly $5 million in early contributions to advance space science. In 2021, he became the lead donor for our Beyond the Horizon campaign, making an extraordinary $9 million gift to propel the Society’s vision forward.
Through his generosity, leadership, and vision, Taner Halicioglu embodies the spirit of the C. Wallace Hooser Award for Visionary Philanthropy.