As we approach our 68th commencement, I would like to applaud our more than 200 graduates as they begin the next phase of their careers in medicine and science, two fields propelled by continuous discovery. At Einstein, innovation is not an abstract ideal—it is a daily pursuit, driven by our leadership, faculty, students, alumni, and donors. In that spirit, this special “Innovation Issue” highlights how our community is transforming ideas into advances that are redefining research and clinical care.
In our top story, we profile three Einstein scientists who are translating discoveries into novel treatments. With the support of philanthropy, the College of Medicine has launched several initiatives to expand this work, including our Acceleration Fund, which enables researchers to generate the data needed to move their promising biomedical innovations through the drug-development pipeline. Learn more in our story, “Scientists Turning Discoveries into Therapies.”
One of Einstein’s distinguishing characteristics is its students, who are dedicated to our mission and fueled by a sense of purpose. Three of our exceptional students—Noah Jacobs, Zoe Goldberger, and Isaac Faith—founded the Einstein Innovation Group to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. In less than two years, they have made a meaningful impact, including helping to launch the College of Medicine’s first elective open to both medical and graduate students, which focuses on healthcare innovation. Read more about our student leaders in “A Passion for Innovation.”
This issue also features Scott Braunstein, M.D. ’90, an alumnus who successfully transitioned from clinical medicine to biotech. A Bronx native, Dr. Braunstein changed his career trajectory when he moved to Wall Street in 2000, ultimately shifting into leadership positions in biotech and pharma. A dedicated mentor, Dr. Braunstein, along with his wife, Lisa, recently established an endowed scholarship to help students with nontuition costs. The Braunsteins also are supporters of the student-run ECHO Clinic. You can get to know Dr. Braunstein and learn more about his career path in this profile story.
As we conclude another productive academic year, I want to thank you—our trustees, donors, alumni, and friends—for your continued partnership. Your support is essential to advancing innovation at Einstein and extending its impact far beyond our campus.
Yaron Tomer, M.D.
The Marilyn and Stanley M. Katz Dean
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Chief Academic Officer
Montefiore Einstein
