Giving Thanks at the Dean’s Society Reception

Albert Einstein College of Medicine hosted its fourth annual Dean’s Society reception on Sept. 16, 2025, at the New York Historical to celebrate and thank supporters who made leadership gifts of $1,500 or more. The event was underwritten by Einstein Trustee Sarah Schlesinger Hirschfeld, M.D., and her husband, Elie Hirschfeld.

From left, Barbara Bartlik, M.D., '81, Richard Frankenstein, M.D. '74, Einstein Board Chair Ruth Gottesman, Ed.D., and Einstein Trustee Sarah Schlesinger Hirschfeld, M.D.

The evening brought together Einstein trustees, alumni, Women’s Division board members, donors, parents, and prospective Dean’s Society members. Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception in the “New York, New York: The Elie and Sarah Hirschfeld Collection” exhibit space, followed by a brief speaking program.

Remarks were delivered by Dr. Schlesinger Hirschfeld; Einstein Board Chair Ruth L. Gottesman, Ed.D.; Yaron Tomer, M.D., Einstein’s Marilyn & Stanley M. Katz Dean; student speaker Jessica Hecht (M.D. student, Class of 2026); and Richard S. Frankenstein, M.D. ’74, president of the Einstein Alumni Association Board of Governors.

Medical student Jessica Hecht, Class of 2026, addresses the crowd at the Dean's Society reception.

This annual tradition provided an opportunity to express gratitude, update donors on Einstein’s progress, and deepen engagement with alumni and friends. Dean’s Society funds, which are unrestricted, enable the College of Medicine to meet pressing needs in classrooms, laboratories, and across campus so that Einstein can invest in scholarship, innovation, research, and academic and practical opportunities for students and scientists.

Guests were treated to a private viewing of the exhibit, which will run until Aug. 6, 2026, at the New York Historical and offers a rich visual homage to New York City. It features works by such artists as Thomas Hart Benton, Keith Haring, Yvonne Jacquette, Charles Sheeler, and Saul Steinberg.