Our Stories

These stories of inspiration and generosity highlight the people and partners behind giving to Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Browse the stories below or search by name or topic to learn more. You can also visit Our Publications page to catch up on even more stories celebrating those who contribute to Feinberg.

Pictured above: Sally Edelsberg, ’72 MS, associate professor emeritus in the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences and former director of the physical therapy program from 1972-99, embraces her daughter after being awarded a Crystal Apple in 2023 for her decades of support for medical school scholarships.


A Daughter's Tribute: Foundation Donation Empowers Basic Science Research in Pathology

In 2018, two paths crossed that would result in a heartfelt partnership supporting vital basic science and pathology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Empathy in Action: Tross Family Boosts Progressive Aphasia Research

The Trosses have long supported philanthropic efforts to study epilepsy, especially in children, at their alma mater, the University of Iowa. But in the years since Beth came under the care of Borna Bonakdarpour, MD, at the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, they have included Dr. Bonakdarpour’s aphasia research in their philanthropic portfolio.

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For Hughes Family, All Eyes on Glaucoma Research

For many, glaucoma is an alarming diagnosis associated with a risk of eventual blindness. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that causes vision loss for which there is no cure. It is preventable and treatable through the lowering of eye pressure, but doctors do not yet have a way to recover the vision that has been lost due to the disease.

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Patient’s Gift Supports Precision Medicine and Ataxia Research

Precision or “personalized” medicine can sound a lot like science fiction. In the Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, scientists can grow neurons from skin cells obtained from a patient and directly test the mechanisms of disease, as well as potential treatments, on these patient-specific neurons.

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‘Frontiers of the Brain’ events draw alumni in Houston, Texas, and Boca Raton, Florida

Alumni in Houston, Texas, and Boca Raton, Florida, recently attended panel discussions on brain health featuring leading experts from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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H Foundation Continues Legacy of Research Support for Lurie Cancer Center

On December 13, leadership from The H Foundation presented a check to the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University for basic science cancer research following its 21st-annual Goombay Bash fundraiser in August. More than $900,000 was raised at this year's event.

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Impact Story: Jamey and Ryan Maniscalco

An avid runner and nonsmoker, Chuck Maniscalco was blindsided by his advanced lung cancer diagnosis, but he refused to let it define him. In fact, it emboldened the Chicago resident to fight the disease not just for himself but also for others combating cancer.

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Reception Honors Members of The Founders Society

On October 14, 2023, members of The Founders Society at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine enjoyed a night out at the Arts Club of Chicago in celebration of their generous and impactful commitment to the medical school.

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Impact Story: Sabrina Kendrick, MD, ’86 WCAS, ’95 GME

Raised on Chicago’s south side, Sabrina Kendrick, MD, ’86 WCAS, ’95 GME, dreamed of becoming a doctor. Without any role models for medicine, she turned to the Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program for mentorship.

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Runner Crosses Oceans and Finish Lines to Fundraise for ALS Research

When Defne Sadalak crossed the Chicago Marathon finish line in early October, she had even more to celebrate than the impressive feat of human endurance that she had accomplished. Defne raised more than $2,000 to support vital amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) research—and a longtime friend—at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Alumni and Friends Celebrated for Dedication to Scholarships

Medical students and leadership celebrated and thanked alumni and friends for their life-changing support of future physicians at a special Commitment to Scholarships luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, on October 14.

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Havey Institute for Global Health Supporters Celebrate Institute’s Transformational Work Around the World

More than 250 friends and members of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine gathered on September 27 to celebrate efforts to improve lives across the globe.

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Northwestern Simulation’s In Situ Training Tests Cardiac Arrest Response Teams

Northwestern Simulation has introduced a new curricular experience to help internal medicine residents improve skills needed for the high-acuity, high-intensity scenario of leading and managing cardiac arrests in the hospital. The new experience occurs alongside a complete code response team in the hospital setting through an in situ simulation.

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22 Faculty Members Honored at Endowed Professorship Ceremony

On September 18, 2023, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine celebrated 22 faculty recently appointed with endowed professorships during a group investiture ceremony at The Peninsula Hotel in downtown Chicago.

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Impact Story: Pon Satitpunwaycha MD, ’69 GME

Now retired and living in Seattle, “Dr. Pon,” as he is known, is helping to lead lifesaving innovations in lung transplant surgery at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine through his exceptional generosity.

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Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students, and trainees at Feinberg dedicate time to innovate new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight some of the exciting work that often happens behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

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Fueling the Future of Brain Tumor Research

In 2019, Josh Van Swol of Palatine, Illinois, was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Like so many individuals facing brain cancer, his life was altered forever after.

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Honoring a Cardiologist’s Personal Approach to Patient Care

Cardiologist David J. Mehlman, MD, has built a legacy of providing personalized care to his patients—and of training generations of cardiologists to nourish the fundamental skills of their trade.

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McKechnies Launch Scholarship in Honor of Dear Friend and Renowned Texas Internist

Jim McKechnie, ’74 MD, FAAOS, and Bill Tompkins, ’74 MD, FACP, were college pals and then lifelong friends who spent many of their formative years together ahead of their independently successful medical careers. Bill Tompkins passed away from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, in 2010. In honor of his dear friend, Jim and his wife, Karen, established the William E. Tompkins, MD Endowed Scholarship Fund in early 2023.

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New Stulberg Professorship to Boost Osteoarthritis Research

Since the 1970s, orthopaedic surgeon S. David Stulberg, MD, has seen new medical research transform the lives of patients with various forms of joint disease—but he says he hasn’t seen any promising leads for his many patients afflicted with osteoarthritis.

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Medical Alumnus Honors Beloved Wife with Scholarship

Medical alumnus Marshall Sparberg, '57, ’60 MD, credits Northwestern for his long and rewarding career in gastroenterology. When his beloved wife, Eve, passed away this past January, he turned to Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to establish the Eve Gaymont Sparberg Scholarship in her name so that others could benefit from the medical school’s resources and prestige.

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Gift for Parkinson’s Disease Research a Tribute to Late Husband

Three years after receiving a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, Jacqueline Gilbert’s husband, Howard, began a medically advised exercise regimen to ameliorate his symptoms. She then spent 17 more precious years with her husband, who received exercise care all those years at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab (formerly the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago).

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Advancing Feinberg's Commitment to Diversity

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion, or ODI, at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine is ushering in a new era of programs and resources for students and faculty from diverse backgrounds with the kickoff of a new, $10 million fundraising initiative.

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Honoring Carol Asher, Champion of Mental Wellness and Women’s Health

In a remarkable act of love and dedication, the late Don Asher of the Asher family left behind a legacy that will forever shape mental wellness and women’s health.

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Lurie Cancer Center Philanthropists Award $150,000 Grant to Cancer Scientist

The newly formed Associate Board of Lurie Cancer Center held their annual summer cocktail reception on July 20 at Woodwind restaurant in Chicago. Throughout the year, these dedicated young professionals raised $150,000 to support cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

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An Investment in Brain Health: NU's Efforts to Understand and Treat Dementia Receive a Boost from Jeanne Martineau’s Planned Gift

Sometimes, reasons to give come in threes. When Jeanne Martineau decided to include Northwestern in her estate plan, she was motivated by three reasons: love for her parents, a belief in the power of music, and the desire to illuminate the causes of dementia and help people living with this illness.

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H Foundation Supporters Celebrate Cancer Advancements at 21st Annual Goombay Bash

More than 1,000 friends and supporters of The H Foundation came together on Saturday, July 22, at the 21st Annual Goombay Bash presented by Becknell Industrial, held at the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier. This year’s Caribbean-themed event raised more than $900,000 to support basic science cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

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Alumni hear from Feinberg aging experts at New York, San Francisco events

Alumni in New York City and San Francisco were recently treated to panel conversations on aging from leading experts affiliated with the Potocsnak Longevity Institute at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Donors, Friends Support Brain Tumor Research at 15th Annual Minds Matter Benefit

On May 5, more than 300 friends and philanthropists celebrated and supported advancements in brain tumor research and care at the Minds Matter benefit, held annually to support the Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute (MBTI) of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

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Lewis Landsberg Society: Providing Camaraderie and Support for All Medicine Residents, Fellows, and Alumni

The late Lewis Landsberg, MD, former dean of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, made medical education his life’s passion during his 30 years at Northwestern.

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Zaleskis Establish Two Scholarships to Honor Strong Family Ties

As a young girl, Jane Turnbull Zaleski never became alarmed at hearing her family’s garage door opening in the middle of the night. She knew her dad, Theodore “Ted” Turnbull, ’45 MD, had his black bag in hand and was off to the hospital to see a patient. “My daddy loved being a doctor, and his patients were very dear to him,” said Mrs. Zaleski.

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Zoe Foundation Support of AFib Research Blossoms into Major NIH Grant

From seeds, apple trees grow and bear fruit. From seed funding, an innovative smart watch app to prevent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) is coming to fruition.

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Transformational Querrey, Simpson Gift Expands Biomedical Research at Feinberg

Discovering new ways to help people has always driven the extraordinary philanthropy of Northwestern University Trustee Kimberly K. Querrey (’22, ’23 P) and her late husband, Louis A. Simpson ’58 (’96 P). This heartfelt desire led Ms. Querrey to further strengthen the couple’s longtime appreciation of the Feinberg School of Medicine and its role in advancing the University’s biomedical research enterprise.

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High-Impact Philanthropy Changes the World

Anyone can claim to change the world, but at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine that is exactly what we are doing. Working together, with the help of high-impact philanthropy from our remarkable donors, we are changing and will continue to change the world.

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Advancing Breakthrough Treatments for Lymphoma

Immunotherapy has been a game changer in cancer treatment. An innovative targeted therapy, immunotherapy works by harnessing the body’s immune system to seek and destroy the abnormal cells of blood cancers and solid tumor diseases.

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A New Era of Inflammation Research

The Chan Zuckerberg Biohub Chicago, a new biomedical research lab uniting investigators across top universities to study inflammation and the immune system, officially began operating out of its new space in Fulton Market in January.

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Kellogg alums fundraise for Northwestern ALS research in honor of friend and former classmate

Esteban Bullrich, ’96 MBA, made a profound impression upon the people he has met around the world, both during his time at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University and throughout his career as an education advocate and respected political leader in his home country of Argentina. When describing Bullrich, friends note his dedication to public service, passionate drive for social justice, and generosity in time and spirit to support those in need. So when he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2021, a band of former Kellogg classmates sprang into action.

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Professional Role Becomes Personal for Eisenberg Foundation Director

In July 2022, Kristen Young became the executive director of the Eisenberg Foundation. Most recently at the American Lung Association, she was eager to apply her extensive experience working in the nonprofit world to raising funds to advance cancer care. Two months later, Kristen received a diagnosis of stage 3 colon cancer at the age of 37.

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Les Turner ALS Foundation Celebrates Advocates and a Year of Medical Advancements

The ALS community—including patients, friends, family, advocates, clinicians, and scientists—gathered in-person and virtually to support the Les Turner ALS Foundation and its mission to improve treatments and outcomes for ALS patients worldwide.

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Kimberly Querrey, Louis Simpson Trust Give $100 Million to Feinberg

Northwestern University Trustee Kimberly K. Querrey and the Louis Simpson Trust have made a new $100 million gift to the Feinberg School of Medicine to significantly expand the University’s biomedical research enterprise.

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Havey Institute for Global Health Celebrates Transformative Work to Boost Health in Low-Income Countries

Leadership shared success stories and updates on projects being carried out around the world—much of the work made possible by philanthropy—at the 15th Annual Robert J. Havey, MD Institute for Global Health Benefit Dinner.

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Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students, and trainees at Feinberg dedicate time to innovate new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight some of the exciting work that often happens behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

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Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students, and trainees at Feinberg dedicate time to innovate new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight some of the exciting work that often happens behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

Read more >

Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students, and trainees at Feinberg dedicate time to innovate new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight some of the exciting work that often happens behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

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Bradbury Partners with Northwestern to Fight LGBTQ Health Disparities

Louis A. Bradbury supports Northwestern’s Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing (ISGMH), the first university-wide institute in the country focused exclusively on research to improve the health of the sexual and gender minority population.

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Donors Contribute to a Decade of Innovation in Public Health

On the 10th anniversary of Feinberg’s Institute for Public Health and Medicine launch, donors shared why they support the far-reaching public health efforts at Northwestern.

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Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students, and trainees at Feinberg dedicate time to innovate new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight some of the exciting work that often happens behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

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Coffman Charitable Trust Brings Cutting-Edge Technology to Brain Tumor Research

The Stephen M. Coffman Charitable Trust recently made a generous $750,000 gift to fund laboratory technology that will allow Feinberg scientists to study cancer cells faster, and in more detail.

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Stahl Plans Professorship and Research Fund in Psychopharmacology

Stephen M. Stahl, ’75 MD, PhD, has planned a $3 million gift to endow a professorship in psychiatry and psychopharmacology and establish a research and education fund in Feinberg’s Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences.

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Mesulam Supporters Propel Innovative Dementia Research and Programs

Dedicated scientists, physicians, and social workers at Feinberg’s Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease are able to tackle dementia disorders from all angles thanks to crucial funding from generous donors.

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Young Philanthropists on Associate Board of Lurie Cancer Center Support Early-Stage Cancer Research

The newly formed Associate Board of Lurie Cancer Center has raised $115,000 to support cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

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An Estate Gift for Future Patients

A dental alumnus turned patient chose to support prostate cancer research at Northwestern in a generous bequest.

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Impact Story: Paul and Fran Kent

The origins of the Tripartite Legacy Faculty Prize in Translational Science and Education began early in the life and career of RAMC Captain Geoffrey Kent, MD, PhD. The award is made possible through the generous support of Dr. Kent's family members and friends.

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Impact Story: Lynn Hammer

Lurie Cancer Center supporter Lynn Hammer shares the story of his wife, Penny, who passed away in January 2021.

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Impact Story: Ralph Friedenberg, '63 MD, '69 GME

For decades, Ralph Friedenberg, '63 MD, '69 GME, has generously supported the medical school through outright gifts to Feinberg’s annual fund and MD Class of 1963 Scholarship. He also recently documented an estate gift to fund endocrinology research and education.

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Impact Story: Young Alumni Give Back through Scholarships

Young alumni recognize the power of scholarships to attract top prospective students with diverse backgrounds and to expand career horizons for current students.

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Impact Story: Lori Post, PhD

Faculty member Lori Post, PhD, tragically lost her father to COVID-19. To prevent others from losing a loved one to COVID-19, she decided to support Northwestern's COVID-19 Vaccine Communication and Evaluation Network.

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Impact Story: Angelo Costas, MD, ’97 GME

Angelo Costas, MD, ’97 GME, and others who trained under Lewis Landsberg, MD, honor Dr. Landsberg's memory through support of the Landsberg Society.

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Impact Story: Jim Lowry

Jim Lowry, member of The Founder’s Society-NULC (Dean’s Circle) and longtime friend and supporter of Northwestern, chose to support Parkinson's disease research at Feinberg.

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Impact Story: Lee Rogers, '59 MD

Lee Rogers, '59 MD, member of the Benefactor Society and The Founders Society-NULC (President’s Circle), generously supports the Lee F. Rogers, MD Professorship in Medical Education and other areas at Feinberg.

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Run4Papa Founder Takes On World’s Highest Marathon to Fund Dementia Research

In May 2022, Run4Papa founder Jason Boschan ran the Everest Marathon to support dementia awareness and research in the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease.

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Supporting A New Generation of Scientists

Legendary philanthropists Louis Simpson and Kimberly Querrey endowed Feinberg's SciHigh Summer Program, which helps high school students from underrepresented backgrounds explore STEM fields.

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The H Foundation Celebrates 20 Years Fueling Cancer Research

For more than two decades, The H Foundation has donated crucial funding to the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. Their support is specifically earmarked for basic science research—the fundamental laboratory studies that lead to new scientific knowledge and ultimately fuel ideas for better therapies for patients.

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Donors Fuel Innovation for Brain Tumor Patients at Minds Matter Benefit

On May 20, 2022, 230 friends and philanthropists celebrated and supported progress being made in brain tumor research and care at the Minds Matter Benefit. The annual event supports the Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute (MBTI) of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University at Northwestern Memorial Hospital

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Celebrating and Supporting Our Les Turner ALS Foundation Partner

The ALS community—including patients, friends, family, advocates, clinicians, and scientists—gathered in-person and virtually to support the Les Turner ALS Foundation and its mission to improve treatments and outcomes for ALS patients worldwide.

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Spring Investiture Ceremony Honors Group of the Medical School’s Most Accomplished Faculty

On May 24, 2022, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine celebrated 25 faculty recently appointed with endowed professorships during a group investiture ceremony at The Peninsula Hotel in downtown Chicago.

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Alumnus Invests in Digital Health and Data Science Training

Ed Wu, ’02 MD, and his wife, Joyce, have made a generous $250,000 commitment to Feinberg to expand its digital health and data science curriculum.

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Members of The Founders Society Celebrated at Reception

On April 30, 2022, members of The Founders Society at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine enjoyed a night out at the Arts Club of Chicago in celebration of their generous and impactful commitment to the medical school.

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Honoring Our Scholarship Supporters

Feinberg hosted donors a special Commitment to Scholarships luncheon at the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, where medical school students and leadership celebrated and thanked these generous alumni and friends for their life-changing support to future clinicians.

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Renowned Hematologist Supports Future Physicians

Robert Kyle, ’52 MD, and his wife, Charlene, endowed the Robert A. and Charlene M. Kyle Scholarship at Feinberg in 2005 and contribute to it annually through outright gifts.

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Land Supports Trainees and Forensic Psychiatry in Multifaceted Gift

After a successful career as a forensic psychiatrist, William Land, ’87 MD, ’88 GME, has committed to supporting Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine students and residents who will follow in his path.

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Mayzel Supports Global Oncology, Advocates for Women at Northwestern

Judith Mayzel has made a generous pledge to establish the Dr. Lifang Hou Global Oncology Research Fund.

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Northwestern Medical Orchestra Builds Community Among Students, Faculty, Alumni, and Beyond

A generous new gift from Gregory Brisson, MD, ’94 GME, helps ensure the Northwestern Medical Orchestra can thrive in perpetuity and continue to bring joy to members and audiences.

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Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students, and trainees at Feinberg dedicate time to innovate new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight some of the exciting work that often happens behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

Read more >

Feinberg Foundation Helps Combat Cancer Disparities in Chicago

With the recommendation of Mrs. Rhonda Feinberg, the Feinberg Foundation decided to make a generous donation to the Center for Health Equity Transformation to address disparities among patients with breast cancer.

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Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation Invests in Northwestern, Impacts Patients Worldwide

While the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation touches nearly every aspect of Northwestern Medicine’s breast cancer endeavor, one of its top priorities is creating opportunities for burgeoning scientists and clinicians to innovate and train to become future leaders in the breast cancer field.

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Donor Seed Funding Catalyzes Major Grants and Discoveries

Initiating a study requires funding for personnel, specialized equipment and supplies, protected time, and space. Fortunately, generous donors to the medical school have been willing to take chances on new ideas, helping Feinberg scientists make discoveries that will lead to better outcomes for patients.

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What My Scholarship Means to Me—and My Future Patients

A first-year medical student explains to the alumni and friends who have funded her Class of 1960 Scholarship why their support is so important to her—and the future patients she will serve.

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Feinberg Promise Scholarship Encourages Students from Groups Underrepresented in Medicine

Since 2019, 75 donors have contributed more than $200,000 in outright gifts and $2 million in estate gifts to support the Promise Scholarship. The medical school’s ultimate goal is to build an endowment of $10 million for this important cause so as many students as possible have access to the high-quality medical education offered at Feinberg.

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Alumni Unite to Create Class Scholarships for Future Physicians

Working together, hundreds of Northwestern’s medical school alumni have generously contributed to class scholarships to support the physicians who will follow in their footsteps.

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Physician-scientists Receive Giddan Child Health Medical Research Grants

Feinberg faculty members Joshua Wechsler, MD, MSCI, and Puneet Opal, MD, PhD, have each received Joseph and Dorothy Giddan Child Health Medical Research Grants, funded by generous donors to support promising new ideas in child health research.

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Trustee, Alumnus and Benefactor Louis Simpson Dies

Mr. Simpson, one of Northwestern’s "foremost champions" and his wife, Kimberly Querrey, have provided support to the university and medical school in countless ways, including more than $250 million in total giving.

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Potocsnak Longevity Institute Hopes to Lengthen Human ‘Healthspan’

Funded by a very generous gift from Chicago industrialist John Potocsnak and family, the institute will foster new discoveries and build on Northwestern’s ongoing research in the rapidly advancing science of aging.

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Bunning Partnership Improves Life for Children with Allergies

A generous new gift from Denise and Dave Bunning ensures that the Center for Food Allergy and Asthma Research will have resources to grow and innovate in perpetuity.

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NDR Funds ALS Research at Northwestern with Global Ambitions

Neurodegenerative Disease Research, Inc. (NDR) has made a five-year, $12.5 million philanthropic commitment to Feinberg to support research in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) led by groundbreaking physician and scientist Teepu Siddique, MD.

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Walder Foundation to Support Equity in Biomedicine

Feinberg has been awarded a $550,000 grant to support the retention of early-career clinician investigators experiencing family caregiving challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Havey Institute for Global Health Growing to Fight the World’s Future Challenges

On November 10, 2021, more than 270 supporters and friends participated in the 14th Annual Robert J. Havey, MD Institute for Global Health Event, this year contributing over $2 million to support the institute’s critical work.

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Event Honors Ann Lurie and Dedication of the Lurie Cancer Center

On October 28, 2021, Northwestern University leadership joined Ann Lurie and other longstanding donors and friends for a special dinner commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University naming and dedication.

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$18 Million For Parkinson’s Disease Research to Study Brain Circuits Driving Symptoms

Feinberg scientists have received two awards totaling nearly $18 million for Parkinson’s disease research from The ASAP Collaborative Research Network, a program of the Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP) initiative through The Michael J. Fox Foundation.

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DeBacker Scholarship Inspires Future Primary Care Physicians

In 2009, Noel DeBacker, MD, ’80 ’82 GME, and a team of his patients decided to help reverse the shortage of primary care physicians in the U.S. by creating the Noel A. DeBacker, MD Scholarship.

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Campaign Gifts Contribute to Better Human Health

Through their support, donors have touched every corner of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine during We Will. The Campaign for Northwestern Medicine. Gifts of all sizes have funded scholarships, research, and crucial programs and infrastructure that enable our scientists and physicians to make new discoveries and better serve patients today and into the future.

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Thankful Patients Establish Ryan-Pusateri Professorship in Ophthalmology

Support from Eve Pusateri and William G. and Mary A. Ryan has helped establish the Ryan-Pusateri Endowed Professorship in Ophthalmology, to be held by Rukhsana G. Mirza, MD, ’06 GME.

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Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students and trainees are innovating and dedicating time to bold new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight just a few of these exciting efforts that often happen behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

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A Recent Graduate Shares Her Story and Gratitude

Ana Sofia Moreno-Mesa, ’21 MD, recipient of the Neil Stone Award for Professionalism and Compassion in Medicine, expresses her appreciation to those who funded her award.

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Brickley Establishes Scholarship to Help Indigenous Communities

Harry Brickley, MD, ’55 GME, made a generous gift to establish the Richard A. Brickley, MD Family Scholarship in hopes of helping future physicians who come from indigenous backgrounds or who have an interest in serving those communities.

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Stellings Make Extraordinary Bequest to Future Physicians

Michael W. Stelling, ’71 MD, and Carol B. Stelling, ’72 MD included an extraordinarily generous $12 million bequest to medical student scholarships in their estate plans.

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Karen Toffler Charitable Trust Helps Advance Vital Medical Research at Northwestern

The Karen Toffler Charitable Trust (KTCT) has committed $40,000 to implement the Toffler Scholar Program at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Investiture Ceremony Honors Group of the Medical School’s Most Accomplished Faculty

On September 20, 2021, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine celebrated 23 faculty recently appointed with endowed professorships during a group investiture ceremony at The Peninsula Hotel in downtown Chicago.

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Ryans Make Historic Gift Naming the Havey Institute for Global Health

Northwestern University Trustees and alumni Patrick G. Ryan and Shirley W. Ryan have made a $25 million gift to name and endow the Robert J. Havey, MD, Institute for Global Health at Feinberg.

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Investing in the Buddy Program, Honoring the Miller Family

The Glen and Wendy Miller Family Buddy Program has paired medical students and individuals living with early-stage dementia since 1997.

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Rampy MS Research Foundation Supports Multiple Sclerosis Research Through Annual Triathlon

The Rampy MS Research Foundation generously supports MS research at Feinberg with proceeds from their 10th annual triathlon, Trifest for MS.

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Venerable Gift to DPT Scholarships Enables Future Careers in Physical Therapy

In honor of her husband, the late Wendell G. Venerable, ’57 PT CERT, Shirley Venerable has made a generous contribution to physical therapy scholarships at Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Cancer Survivor Supports Her Physician's Research Through Estate and Outright Gifts

Patricia Hoffman generously gives to hematological research at Northwestern led by Dr. Leo Gordon. “I have benefited so much from Dr. Gordon’s care and the research that came before me, and I want to pay it forward."

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Celebrating 30 Years as Lurie Cancer Center

In 1991, the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University was dedicated through a gift of endowment from Ann and Robert H. Lurie. Northwestern proudly commemorates and recognizes this important date in Lurie Cancer Center’s history by celebrating the 30th anniversary of its naming throughout the year 2021.

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McNealys Fund Film Project to Preserve Medical History

A gift from the McNealy family has enabled the Galter Health Sciences Library & Learning Center to restore teaching films that highlight the evolution of surgical techniques over time and the important role that Northwestern played in the early history of film in medical education.

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Osher Foundation Invests in Future Integrative Medicine Leaders

Adding to its storied history of philanthropy promoting health and wellbeing at Northwestern and across the world, The Bernard Osher Foundation has made a new $2 million commitment to the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at Northwestern University.

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Endowed Professor Helps Northwestern Lead Against Cancer

Lurie Cancer Center aims to recruit physician-scientists who are leaders in their fields, like new arrival Seth Pollack, MD, a renowned expert on immunotherapy strategies for treating rare cancers.

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Friends of Prentice Enables Study on COVID Vaccine and Pregnancy

The COVID vaccine earlier in pregnancy leads to better antibody transfer to babies, according to a Northwestern Medicine study made possible by an emergency grant from Friends of Prentice.

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Trio of COVID-19 Collaborative Innovation Awards Presented

Supported by philanthropic donations and the Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences (NUCATS) Institute, the projects will investigate key aspects of COVID-19 disease.

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Flanagan Receives Inaugural Rogovin Award in Neuroscience

Generously funded in Mark Rogovin's memory, the award supports a neuroscience project related to memory and dementia.

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Showcasing Our Partner the Les Turner ALS Foundation

Supporters celebrated the research, care services, and leadership contributing to Northwestern and the Foundation’s fight against ALS at the virtual Hope Through Caring Gala.

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Innovation Spotlight: Empowering Feinberg's Unsung Heroes

Each day, our faculty, students and trainees are innovating and dedicating time to bold new ideas and programs that will move the needle in medicine and science. Here, we spotlight just a few of these exciting efforts that often happen behind the scenes and beyond daily clinical care.

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Gifts to Institute for Global Health Support Northwestern’s Response to Pandemics at Home and Worldwide

Thanks in large part to donor support, Feinberg’s Institute for Global Health has funded projects that empower Northwestern faculty and their colleagues across the world to combat COVID-19.

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Scholarship for Future Neurosurgeons Honors Beloved Wife, Mother and Friend

In memory of their wife and mother, Maureen Rogan, Vincent Cozzi and his children pledged to make a generous gift to establish and endow a permanent scholarship for a fourth-year Feinberg medical student pursuing a residency in neurosurgery.

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Half Century Club Alumni Make Big Impact on Medical School and Its Mission

Members of the New Half Century Club have made Northwestern proud through their service to patients, research discoveries and teachings to the generations of physicians who followed them. They've also made a big impact on Northwestern, giving back to their alma mater through their time and philanthropy over many years.

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Diana’s Fibroid Foundation Fights for Women Through Research, Education

In honor of Diana Tomkinson, Diana’s Fibroid Foundation made a generous commitment to Feinberg’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology to enable research that may contribute to better care for women suffering from fibroids and their most dire consequences

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Huebners Thank Their Care Team with Heart Failure, Myocarditis Fund

Grateful for the care he received at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Charlie Huebner and his wife, Caroline, made a generous gift to the Feinberg School of Medicine to create a new fund for research and education in heart failure and myocarditis.

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Celebrating Our Scholarship Donors and Their Impact

On March 11, 2021, medical school leadership, students, and alumni came together at the Commitment to Scholarships virtual event to thank the compassionate and forward-thinking donors who support scholarships at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Your Impact: Faculty at the Forefront

More than 20 years of research investigating health disparities gave Clyde Yancy, MD, insights into the coronavirus pandemic’s unequal impact on Black communities.

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Alumni Giving Supports First White Coat for New Medical Students

Medical students share their gratitude to just a few of the many generous alumni who gave them the gift of their first white coat.

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Institute for Global Health Showcases Northwestern’s Critical COVID Response at Home and Worldwide

On November 10, more than 300 supporters and friends joined the 13th Annual Institute for Global Health/Global Health Initiative (GHI) Event, presented virtually for the first time by Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Scheck & Siress Continues Support for Prosthetics and Orthotics Research

The Chicagoland prosthetics and orthotics practice, now part of national company Hanger Clinic, funds research in the Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center to help people who live with physical disability.

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Gates Foundation Funds Project to Develop Novel Female Contraceptives

Northwestern Medicine scientists received an $8 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to identify novel biological targets for non-hormonal contraceptives for women in developing countries.

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Northwestern Center Focuses on Lifting Health for All

The Center for Health Equity Transformation seeks to expose the root causes of health inequities through research, education, advocacy, and community engagement.

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Fox Foundation Awards Grant for Landmark Parkinson’s Study

The Michael J. Fox Foundation grant will help Northwestern Medicine scientists identify biomarkers of Parkinson’s disease progression for use in clinical trials for novel therapies.

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Northwestern Experts Share Insights on COVID-19 and Cancer

More than 100 people joined Northwestern experts virtually for a discussion on COVID-19 research and prevention efforts that may benefit patients with cancer and others at increased risk of complications.

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Mothers and Babies Program Expands Thanks to Perigee Fund

Northwestern can now provide increased training nationwide in the evidence-based intervention that prevents postpartum depression and its long-term effects on both mother and child.

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Planned Gifts Benefit Next-Generation Medical Students

David Margulies, ’61 MD, and his wife, Mary, have committed to supporting Feinberg through their estate plan.

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Senyei Gift Jumpstarts Critical COVID-19 Antibody Research

Northwestern University trustee and alumnus Andrew “Drew” Senyei, ’79 MD, and his wife, Noni, made a significant contribution to kick off Northwestern’s Screening for Coronavirus Antibodies in Neighborhoods study.

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Lauding the American Heart Association: An Exceptionally Committed Partner in Cardiovascular Health Research

Feinberg is proud to have some $22 million in active AHA awards now supporting the work of Northwestern physicians and scientists across 55 research projects.

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Lurie Cancer Center Goes Virtual to Celebrate Cancer Survivors

Not even a worldwide pandemic could prevent hope, love, and support from flourishing in the fight against cancer, as evident at the the 27th Annual Cancer Survivors’ Celebration Walk & 5K.

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Dr. John Bergan: Pioneering Vascular Surgeon’s Culture of Knowledge Lives On

The Division of Vascular Surgery recently celebrated the newly endowed John J. Bergan, MD Lectureship in honor of its founder and first chief.

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Supporting a Passion: Francis Estate Gift Enables PT Students to Pursue Global Health Experiences

Nora and Dean Francis made a generous estate gift to support physical therapist students with demonstrated financial need who want to pursue international clinical experiences.

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Gift Names Epigenetics Institute at Feinberg

A new $15 million gift from University trustees and supporters Louis A. Simpson and Kimberly K. Querrey will establish the Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, boosting the school’s current efforts to study the effects of environment on the regulation of gene expression.

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Introducing the Joan and Paul Rubschlager Professorship

The new Joan and Paul Rubschlager Professorship has been bestowed to Robert G. Kalb, MD, director of the Les Turner ALS Center at Northwestern Medicine.

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Celebrating Our Nathan Smith Davis Society Members

Feinberg applauds members of our Nathan Smith Davis Society and their impact on the medical school.

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Special Thank You to Our Scholarship Supporters

Our students and medical school leaders send their gratitude to the generous alumni, faculty, and friends who support scholarships.

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Basketball Fundraiser Supports Alzheimer’s Disease Research

On March 13, the Schlotman family of Munster, Indiana, and staff from Munster High School presented a check for $11,000 to the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease.

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Houk Lecture Honors Leader in Physiology, Introduces New Fellowship Fund

At seminar honoring James C. Houk, PhD, former chair of the Department of Physiology, leadership announced a generous bequest from Dr. Houk and his wife to establish a fellowship for graduate students studying neurophysiology.

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Why I Give: Q&A with a Scholarship Donor

An anonymous member of the medical school’s Class of 1960 explains why he supports scholarships and offers advice to fellow donors.

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Honoring a Visionary Scholarship Supporter, Alumna and Woman in Medicine

The medical school has established the Mary Ann Frable Dean's Scholarship for Women in Medicine in memory of Mary Ann Frable, ’59 MD, ’64 GME, and her leadership in supporting and promoting merit-based medical school scholarship funds at Northwestern.

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A Grateful Patient Thanks His Hematologist by Supporting Her Research

Richard Ryan is honoring hematologist Jane Winter, MD, with a generous gift that will fund a research nurse focused on clinical trials in the lymphoma program at Northwestern.

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Legendary Donors Support 3 New Areas at Northwestern

Northwestern University trustees Louis A. Simpson ’58 and Kimberly K. Querrey made new, high-impact gifts to fund worthy research initiatives focusing on neurological diseases, bioelectronics and training students from underprivileged backgrounds.

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Endowed Professors Honored at Annual Luncheon

On February 21, 2020, endowed professors on Feinberg’s faculty gathered for a luncheon that thanked and honored them for their contributions to healthcare, medical education, and scientific discovery.

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Impact Story: Diversity in Medicine Scholarship Fund

By harnessing the power of ‘crowd funding,’ the Class of 2019 established the Diversity in Medicine Scholarship as a class gift to their alma mater. The scholarship will support incoming medical students who belong to at least one traditionally underrepresented minority group in the field of medicine and promote the diversity of identities and life experiences of medical students.

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Impact Story: Thrombosis Research and Education

Pulmonary embolisms (PEs) occur when blood clots —usually from the legs—travel upward in the body to the lungs where they block critical blood flow and oxygen. One of the most common cardiovascular diseases in the United States, this potentially life-threatening condition requires immediate medical attention from a variety of specialists. Dr. Daniel Schimmel, an interventional cardiologist, leads Northwestern Medicine’s Venous Thromboembolism Service.

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Impact Story: Immune Monitoring Core

The promise of immunotherapy—stimulating the body’s immune response to fight cancer—is the next frontier for the treatment of a growing number of cancers. An oncologist and skin cancer expert, Dr. Jeffrey Sosman contributed to the early clinical trials of novel immune-based therapies that made the first significant inroads in treating melanoma. Since arriving at Feinberg in 2016, Dr. Sosman has worked to strengthen Northwestern’s immunotherapy capabilities for melanoma and other cancers.

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Impact Story: Class of 1963 Scholarship

For the Class of 1963, creating a scholarship at the time of the group’s 50th reunion grew from a desire to leave a lasting legacy by supporting tomorrow’s promising physicians. The journey of Rebecca Xu, the current holder of the Class of 1963 Scholarship, is one that these loyal alumni and others who support scholarships can fully embrace as their own.

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Impact Story: Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease

When she was in graduate school, a research rotation at the Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease Center at Feinberg solidified Dr. Emily Rogalski’s interest in aging and dementia research. She went on to earn her PhD in neuroscience from Northwestern and, in 2008, she joined Feinberg as a faculty member. Dr. Rogalski is a clinical and cognitive neuroscientist, and her research focuses on aging and dementia.

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Impact Story: Division of Nephrology

Early in her medical training, the puzzling case of a seemingly healthy young man’s failing kidneys charted a course for Dr. Sue Quaggin. Determined to better understand kidney disease, this renowned nephrology expert has spent her career advancing clinical care through groundbreaking kidney research. In 2013, Dr. Quaggin joined Northwestern, where she is creating a super-charged hub for kidney research.

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Impact Story: Institute for Global Health

Northwestern faculty and students have long been involved in supporting initiatives to enhance global health and promote health equity. In May, these growing international efforts were further elevated and unified with the launch of a new Feinberg Institute of Global Health.

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Northwestern Breast Cancer Experts Share Latest Insights on the Disease

Patients, survivors, caregivers, and supporters recently joined expert breast cancer clinicians and scientists at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine for a panel discussion about the latest breast cancer treatments, trends, and research.

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Gift to Dermatology Honors Women in Science and Medicine

Feinberg alumni Kavitha Gandhi, ’98 MD, ’99 GME, and Sanjay Gandhi, ’97 MD, ’01 ’04 GME, made a generous gift to fund a new Innovation Grant Program in the Department of Dermatology and to honor the achievements of extraordinary women working in science and medicine.

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Renée Israel Foundation Supports Northwestern’s Lurie Cancer Center

On November 6, 2019, the Renée Israel Foundation presented a check for $100,000 to support breast cancer research at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

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Northwestern to Develop Personalized Treatments for Neurological Disorders with New Gift

A new $10 million gift from Northwestern University trustees and supporters Louis A. Simpson ’58 and Kimberly K. Querrey will support a center now known as the Simpson Querrey Center for Neurogenetics.

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Still Doing ‘Brilliant Science,’ Jeremiah Stamler Turns 100

Considered the founding father of preventive cardiology, Jeremiah Stamler, MD, who celebrated his 100th birthday Oct. 27, is still conducting ‘brilliant science,’ according to his colleagues.

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A Gift Honors Husband’s Kind Spirit and Care for Others

When her husband passed away in February 2019, Marge asked that donations to honor his memory be made to Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to support stroke research. Later, she donated another special gift.

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20th Annual Lecture Honors Former Chair of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

On October 16, Feinberg’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation welcomed Michelle Gittler, MD, ’92 GME, to deliver the 20th Annual Ben L. Boynton, MD Lecture.

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Twelve Years of Global Impact: Celebrating the New Institute for Global Health at Northwestern

On September 25, 2019, more than 300 people came together to support Northwestern’s commitment to improving health worldwide during the 12th Annual Global Health Initiative (GHI) Benefit Dinner.

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Discover Feinberg: Northwestern Breakthroughs Leading the Way to Healthier Aging

During a recent Discover Feinberg lecture, three distinguished scientists from the medical school presented their research on a topic that truly affects everyone.

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Bequest Gives Future Students a Chance in Medicine

Alumnus makes planned gift to support medical student scholarships.

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$10 Million Endowment Goal Will Create Arrhythmia Research Center

A $10 million endowment goal will create an Arrhythmia Research Center at Feinberg and enable physician-scientists to improve the way cardiologists diagnose and treat patients with heart rhythm disorders.

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Lefkofsky Family Foundation Empowers Cancer Researchers to Take Risks

Eric Lefkofsky, chairman and co-founder of Groupon, and his wife, Liz, made a new gift to ensure that Lurie Cancer Center investigators have resources to conduct promising pilot studies.

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Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center Opens Its Doors

On June 17, Northwestern University leadership, trustees, faculty and benefactors joined former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and local politicians to officially unveil the Louis A. Simpson and Kimberly K. Querrey Biomedical Research Center.

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Chung Family Honors Their Patriarch’s Legacy Through Neurosurgery Lectureship

Faculty and trainees in Northwestern’s Department of Neurological Surgery gathered for the inaugural Byong Uk Chung, MD Global Neurosurgical Lectureship in Neurosurgery, a unique learning opportunity made possible by generosity from the Chung family to commemorate their patriarch

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H Foundation’s Goombay Bash Hits Record Fundraising for Basic Cancer Research

On July 27, 2019, more than 1,000 friends and supporters of The H Foundation came together at Chicago’s Navy Pier to support breakthrough cancer research at its annual Goombay Bash.

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The Investiture of Dr. Robert J. Vassar as the Davee Professor of Alzheimer Research

On June 18, 2019, Robert J. Vassar, PhD, was formally invested as the Davee Professor of Alzheimer Research at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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Introducing a New Home for the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer's Disease

Donors joined Northwestern Medicine leadership and experts in neurodegenerative disease to celebrate new state-of-the-art space for the Mesulam Center.

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Annual Minds Matter Benefit Supports Malnati Brain Tumor Institute

On May 17, 2019, 350 friends and supporters gathered for the annual Minds Matter Benefit Dinner to raise funds for the Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute.

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The Investiture of Dr. Kurt Q. Lu as the Eugene and Gloria Bauer Professor of Dermatology

Kurt Q. Lu, MD, was formally invested as the Eugene and Gloria Bauer Professor of Dermatology at Feinberg on April 29, 2019, at a ceremony at the Peninsula Chicago.

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Northwestern Physician-Scientists Share Advancements in Precision Medicine

During the inaugural Discover Feinberg lecture, three world-class investigators from the medical school discussed the incredible potential of precision medicine to improve the diagnosis and treatment of disease.

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Long-time Faculty Members Leave More Than $9 Million to Northwestern

Gifts from David Cugell, MD, and Christina Enroth-Cugell, MD, PhD, will support research in lung disease, visual neurosciences, and biomedical engineering.

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The Investiture of Dr. Rod S. Passman as the Jules J. Reingold Professor of Electrophysiology

On March 21, 2019, Rod S. Passman, MD, MSCE, was formally invested as the Jules J. Reingold Professor of Electrophysiology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

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The Investiture of Drs. Jayesh Mehta and Seema Singhal as the Chez Family Professors

On June 21, Jayesh Mehta, MD, and Seema Singhal, MD, were invested as the Chez Family Professors of Myeloma Research during a formal ceremony at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago.

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