The Charles Simonyi Fund for Arts and Sciences is making a difference in the Seattle region and around the world by providing grants to worthy organizations in the arts, sciences, and education. The fundamental goal of the foundation is to provide "access to excellence."

The following are key facts and a brief summary of the foundation's work:

• The Charles Simonyi Fund for Arts and Sciences is a $75 million foundation established by Charles Simonyi in late 2003.
• Distribution is 10 percent per year for 10 years to worthy organizations that demonstrate excellence in the fields of arts, sciences, and education.
• The Simonyi Fund's first major gift was $10 million in January 2004 to the Seattle Symphony to celebrate its 100th anniversary.
• Other gifts have been given to the Institute for Advanced Study, the Seattle Public Library, the Museum of Flight in Seattle, the Russian National Orchestra, and the Metropolitan Opera International Radio Broadcasts.
• The Executive Director of the foundation is Susan Hutchison, former KIRO-TV news anchor.