The Hixon Center for Urban Ecology was established in 1998 with a generous gift from Alec (’38) and Adelaide Hixon. The work of the Center reflects the Hixon’s interest in encouraging local Yale-New Haven environmental initiatives, as well as global public-private partnerships for a better urban environment.

Noted philanthropists and environmentalists, the late Mr. and Mrs. Hixon have been generous benefactors of the University for decades, and were active in the University’s affairs. In addition to establishing the Hixon Center for Urban Ecology, the Hixons endowed the Lex Hixon ’63 Professorship of World Religion in memory of their son. A tremendously dedicated alumnus, Mr. Hixon received the Yale Medal in 1984, and was a founding member of the Sterling Fellows. Graciously continuing a tradition of involvement, Mrs. Hixon served on the Leadership Council of the School of the Environment.