I am pleased to welcome you to this latest issue of Einstein magazine—my first as chair of the Board of Trustees of Albert Einstein College of Medicine. I was drawn to this role by the strength and commitment of the Einstein community, particularly our alumni and donors, whose partnership is essential to advancing our mission. This issue offers a compelling look at the many ways your support continues to drive progress across the institution.

One highlight of my spring was participating in the launch of the Batia and Idan Ofer Program for Validation of Interventions Targeting Aging and Longevity (BIO‑VITAL). Made possible by the Ofer Family Foundation, this initiative harnesses Einstein’s faculty expertise and research infrastructure to accelerate transformative discoveries in geroscience and the development of novel therapies. You can learn more about the Ofers and BIO‑VITAL in our feature, “Ofer Family Foundation Gift Will Advance Research on Aging,” as well as in our coverage of the launch event, which brought together the Ofers, Montefiore Einstein leadership, and representatives from our internationally recognized aging-research enterprise.

Our donors support Einstein in many meaningful ways, including through planned giving. Alumni continue to play a leading role in these efforts, particularly through participation in our Legacy Society. In this issue, we profile Legacy Society member Mark Erlich, M.D. ’75, a specialist in plastic surgery, ophthalmology, and head and neck surgery. Dr. Erlich has maintained a deep connection to Einstein through mentorship and philanthropy, honoring his relationship with the College of Medicine while helping shape the next generation of physicians. You can read more about Dr. Erlich here.

Einstein is also home to some of the world’s most accomplished physicians and scientists. Among them is Michelle Ng Gong, M.D., M.S., our new chair of medicine. An internationally recognized leader in critical care, Dr. Gong previously transformed the divisions of critical care and pulmonary medicine as chief. She now steps into one of Montefiore Einstein’s most prominent leadership roles at a moment of significant change and opportunity. Learn more about Dr. Gong’s career journey, her work to improve outcomes for critically ill patients, and her vision for the department’s future in this interview.

You will also find highlights from several recent alumni and donor events in this issue, including the celebration of the establishment of the George Y. and Catherine H. Wu Medical Scientist Training Program Directorship, the annual Montefiore Einstein in Florida Luncheon, and two Cards for a Cause events.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Einstein magazine, and I look forward to working together to advance Albert Einstein College of Medicine and its vital mission.

Stuart Spodek
Chair, Board of Trustees
Albert Einstein College of Medicine