BSI Engineering has been a significant player in supporting pancreatic cancer research at the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, contributing over $1.2 million since 2010. The company’s commitment stems from a deeply personal connection to Bryan Speicher, the father of BSI’s co-founder, David Speicher. Bryan was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2000 and passed away in 2003, but his legacy of strength, kindness, and giving has continued to inspire the company and its employees.
David Speicher witnessed his father’s battle with cancer and was profoundly impacted by his courage and determination. In honor of Bryan, David and his sister, Kelley Speicher Aronson, have continued to support research aimed at finding treatments and a cure for the disease. This commitment was solidified in 2011 when BSI made its first donation of $10,000 to the UC Cancer Center’s pancreatic cancer research efforts. Over the years, BSI’s philanthropic contributions have funded more than 15 pilot research awards and supported innovative studies by researchers such as Krushna Patra, PhD, Mathieu Sertorio, PhD, and Davendra Sohal, MD.
BSI’s generosity has not only supported groundbreaking research but also helped secure national grants from the National Institutes of Health, the American Cancer Society, and the Department of Defense. David Speicher is encouraged by the progress made at UC, especially as some of the research has progressed into clinical trials, bringing hope to many patients facing pancreatic cancer.
Alongside its major focus on pancreatic cancer, BSI Engineering also funds other charitable causes, both large and small. From supporting the American Lung Association to funding local community initiatives like Little League teams and 5K races, BSI fosters a culture of giving. “We’ll direct our money to whatever our employees are passionate about,” says Nick Long, a principal at BSI, highlighting the company’s broader commitment to charitable engagement.
The culture of giving at BSI Engineering is a direct reflection of Bryan Speicher’s values. He was known for his generosity and his commitment to making meaningful changes in his community. Whether building a YMCA, helping local residents repair roofs after tornadoes, or pushing for road improvements, Bryan’s spirit of service continues to resonate within the company.
Looking to the future, BSI remains committed to supporting pancreatic cancer research, with a focus on expanding access to care in underserved communities around the Greater Cincinnati area. The company is also backing innovative research by former UC Cancer Center researcher Vladimir Bogdanov, PhD, whose work on a new drug combination holds promise for slowing the spread of pancreatic cancer.
As pancreatic cancer remains a major health challenge, with an estimated 67,440 new diagnoses in 2025 alone, BSI’s ongoing contributions are crucial in the fight for better treatments. The Speicher family is determined to help change the outlook for future generations affected by this devastating disease. “When I hear ‘pancreatic cancer,’ I immediately get a sense of hopelessness,” says Kelley Speicher Aronson. “I look forward to not feeling that way in the future, thanks to research.”
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