A Family Affair: The Investiture of Dr. Frank PalellaIn a special celebration on December 9, Frank J. Palella Jr., MD, was honored as the inaugural recipient of the Potocsnak Family – C.S.C. Research Professorship. Described as a “committed, compassionate, devoted faculty member” by his extoller, John P. Phair, MD, professor emeritus of medicine, Dr. Palella’s work with HIV/AIDS at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine has brought pride to the entire Northwestern medical community. It is this work, in fact, that caught the attention of John Potocsnak, president and chief executive officer of Corrugated Supplies Company, LLC, and his family, whose generosity made possible this research professorship.  | Mr. Potocsnak, Mrs. Laura Potocsnak, Dr. Palella,Mrs. Elizabeth Potocsnak, and Mr. John Potocsnak, Jr. (l to r) |
Following an introduction by J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD, vice president for medical affairs and Lewis Landsberg Dean, Mr. Potocsnak shared remarks about his family’s relationship with Dr. Palella and their ultimate decision to endow a professorship at the Feinberg School. “Those of you who know Frank know how wonderful he is, and you all know how great an institution Northwestern University is—I couldn’t be happier with what we’ve done.” A family friend’s HIV diagnosis brought the Potocsnaks to Dr. Palella for his expertise. His tremendous dedication struck the family “in such a way, we felt the need to do something more. We do this for all of you we don’t see.” Referencing other patients and families devastated by HIV diagnoses, Mr. Potocsnak shared his family’s desire to create protected time for Dr. Palella through this professorship, allowing him to make further breakthroughs in HIV/AIDS research, affecting innumerable lives. Dr. Phair extolled Dr. Palella with equal admiration. Describing Dr. Palella’s excellent work as a resident, fellow, and finally faculty member at Northwestern, Dr. Phair opened a window into Dr. Palella’s groundbreaking work, and shed light on his dedication to teaching and patient care. “Frank is an astute clinician, an articulate lecturer, a credit to the department, and a valued and good friend.”  | Mr. Potocsnak, Drs. Palella, Jameson, and Phair (l to r) |
After accepting his professorship medallion and official title, presented by Dr. Jameson on behalf of the medical school, Dr. Palella exclaimed comically, “This is the closest I’ve ever come to being speechless!” Expressing his widespread gratitude, Dr. Palella acknowledged Dr. Jameson, Mr. Potocsnak, and Jeffrey M. Glassroth, MD, interim dean designate. “I’m here because of the individuals with whom I’ve interacted,” he said. “I stand on the shoulders of giants.” He also thanked his mentors at the Feinberg School, particularly Dr. Phair, as well as Steven M. Wolinsky, MD; Robert L. Murphy, MD; and John P. Flaherty, MD, all professors in the Division of Infectious Diseases. Lastly, Dr. Palella addressed Mr. Potocsnak and his family, describing their immense commitment, extraordinary generosity, and devotion. “The Potocsnaks understand and vigorously support our research, and apply their resolve and commitment to helping others. I am proud to count them among my closest friends.” By: Andrea Arntsen-Harris
Photo Credit: Nathan Mandell | 
