Chapman University has received a $1.5-million gift...

Chapman University has received a $1.5-million gift to establish a chair for its nationally accredited food science and nutrition program from Edgar and Elizabeth Pankey of Tustin, longtime area ranchers and developers. “The gift will be a legacy to the Pankeys’ love of what they’ve committed so much of their lives to,” said Chapman University President James L. Doti. “It will ensure that we will always be able to attract the best and brightest teachers and researchers for our program.” Irvine resident Dr. Fred Caporaso will be the initial holder of the Pankey chair. The endowment will help launch a $10-million Center for Food Science and Nutrition at the university. Chapman is one of only three schools in the state with a nationally accredited food science program, and the only private university with one. The field helps the food industry develop better tasting and more nutritious foods for the marketplace.