Darlene Marcos Shiley was the widow of Donald P. Shiley, a prominent biomedical engineer and inventor of the Bjork-Shiley heart valve. Following his death, she became a renowned philanthropist, notably through the Donald P. and Darlene V. Shiley Foundation. Her philanthropy focused primarily on supporting education, healthcare, and the arts. She played a significant role in numerous charitable endeavors, impacting organizations across diverse fields.
Her contributions left a lasting legacy of improving lives and supporting vital institutions. The foundation bearing her and her husband’s names has provided significant funding for research, scholarships, and capital projects, contributing substantially to advancements in medical technology, educational opportunities, and artistic expression. Her dedication to philanthropy reflected a deep commitment to giving back to society and fostering positive change.