The Capan Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was founded on the philanthropic vision of Dr. Catherine Chen and the late Dr. Bala Pandi (1951-2020). Their journey began in 2010 when the two accomplished biotech professionals met to share their life stories and career experiences, with a particular focus on the transformative power of education.

Dr. Pandi, a pioneering figure in the biotech industry based in San Diego, and Dr. Chen, an innovative biotech entrepreneur, recognized the profound impact that education had on their own lives. Dr. Pandi’s path led a student from a small coastal village to the prestigious Indian Institute of Science, followed by a journey across the Indian Ocean to Birkbeck College in London, ultimately culminating in a thriving career in San Diego’s biotech hub. Similarly, Dr. Chen’s journey began in a modest town in Southeast China.  She studied at the Chinese Academy of Preventive Medicine in Beijing, and continued her training in University of Michigan and Scripps Research Institute,  before realizing her aspirations in San Diego, where she aimed to create products that meet real-world needs through the application of her extensive scientific knowledge.

Inspired by their shared experiences and the life-changing opportunities afforded by education, Dr. Pandi and Dr. Chen decided to channel their resources into a foundation dedicated to promoting educational access and empowerment. Thus, the Capan Foundation was established, with a mission to uplift individuals and communities through educational initiatives and support. Their commitment to harnessing the power of education continues to drive the foundation's efforts to make a meaningful difference in the world.