How We Started

Robert Krembil established the Krembil Foundation in 1998. Always generous in his giving, Robert saw the opportunity to evolve his philanthropy in a more focused and structured way. In 2001, Robert partnered with his son to better define the Foundation’s funding priorities. Mark took on the role of President & CEO managing the day-to-day operations and creating a strategic direction for the Foundation. He noticed a gap in funding in the field of brain research and chose to invest in neuroscience.

In his strategic direction, Mark sought to tackle the complex diseases (i.e. dementia) that require significant research to understand their underlying mechanisms. Our current interests have expanded to include research in the areas of neurodegeneration, the immune system and an immunological focus on arthritic diseases. 

The board of directors is composed of the Krembil family. Each director brings with them their own experiences, interests and perspectives that shape the Foundation’s direction and granting strategy. One example of this is the nursing development program that was established in 2004. This collective expertise enables the Foundation to strategically support projects that align with the Foundation’s mission and drive lasting positive change.

Board of Directors

A group of six people in business attire posing for a photo in an office setting, with two seated in the front and four standing behind them.

Robert Krembil

Chair of the Board

Mark Krembil

Executive Director

Riley Krembil

Director

Jake Krembil

Director

Linda Krembil

Vice President

Stacey Krembil

Secretary & Treasurer

Kate Williams, a woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, is wearing a gray blazer and light blue shirt. She's smiling against a plain background, exuding professionalism and warmth.

Kate Wiliams, PhD

Scientific Director

Dr. Kate Williams is the Scientific Director at the Krembil Foundation.  Reporting to the President and CEO, she advances the Foundation’s research initiatives by identifying high-risk, high-reward research opportunities. With a PhD in neuroscience and deep insights into the research landscape, she leads the Foundation’s strategic research direction, and oversees the Foundation’s research portfolios.

In her role, Kate fosters relationships with key opinion leaders, researchers, institutes, and universities, ensuring the Foundation’s strategic leadership in developing and evolving its research investments.  This includes actively managing key investments, where regular updates with funded researchers, meticulous monitoring of research progress, and evaluation of milestones and deliverables are integral responsibilities.