Einstein—the only New York City medical college to hold an in-person graduation this year—celebrated its 63rd commencement on a beautiful spring afternoon. At the outdoor ceremony on May 27, the first held on campus in two decades, Einstein conferred 172 M.D. degrees and 14 Ph.D. degrees. An additional 11 graduates of Einstein’s Medical Scientist Training Program received both an M.D. and a Ph.D. degree.
David Kessler, M.D., chief science officer for the White House COVID-19 Response Team, delivered a virtual commencement address.
“This remarkable group of physicians and scientists in Einstein’s Class of 2021 overcame significant challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to complete their studies and earn their diplomas,” said Gordon F. Tomaselli, M.D., the Marilyn and Stanley M. Katz Dean at Einstein and executive vice president and chief academic officer at Montefiore Medicine. “We salute their resilience and achievements.”
The ceremony was held under a canopy on the lawn of the Michael F. Price Center for Genetic and Translational Medicine/Harold and Muriel Block Research Pavilion. Some graduates chose to participate virtually. Restrictions on gatherings during the COVID-19 pandemic required parents and guests to observe the ceremony in the nearby Central Courtyard via video feed.
From left, Yeshiva University President Ari Berman, Ph.D.; Montefiore President and Chief Executive Officer Philip O. Ozuah, M.D., Ph.D.; and Einstein Dean Gordon Tomaselli, M.D., at Einstein’s outdoor commencement.
Ruth Gottesman, Ed.D., chair of Einstein’s Board of Trustees, and Edward Burns, M.D., executive dean at Einstein.
Members of Einstein’s Class of 2021 line up outside before their outdoor commencement ceremony.
Kristin Williams, M.D., is hooded by Damien Jackson, M.Ed., Einstein’s assistant dean of student finance.
Virginia Folgado Marco, left, and Basia Galinski smile after receiving their Ph.D. degrees.
