Dr. Ruth Gottesman donates $1 billion to Albert Einstein College for free tuition

Former professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine donates $1 billion to pay tuition for all students, largest gift in US history.

Dr. Ruth Gottesman, a former professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, has made a historic donation of $1 billion to the New York City school, marking the largest gift of its kind ever given in the United States. This incredible act of generosity will cover the tuition of all current and incoming students, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their medical education without the burden of financial debt.

The donation comes from the fortune amassed by Dr. Gottesman's late husband, David "Sandy" Gottesman, a Wall Street finance and early Berkshire Hathaway investor who passed away in September 2022. In a joint statement with the school, Dr. Gottesman expressed her gratitude to her late husband for entrusting her with these funds and for the privilege of making such a significant contribution to a cause she holds dear.

Having joined the medical college in 1968, Dr. Gottesman has been a dedicated member of the institution, conducting research on child learning disabilities and creating an adult literacy program. She currently serves as the chair of the Einstein Board of Trustees and sits on the board of the Montefiore Health System, the school's affiliate hospital.

The impact of this donation cannot be overstated, as it will alleviate the financial burden on students who often graduate with debts exceeding $200,000. With tuition costs reaching approximately $60,000 per year, this gift will open doors for talented and diverse individuals who may not have had the means to pursue a medical education otherwise. The school, which is attended by approximately 1,100 students, is located in the Bronx, an area that ranks last in New York State for health outcomes and factors, according to the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute.

This transformational gift will not only benefit the students of Albert Einstein College of Medicine but also contribute to the advancement of healthcare in underserved communities. Dr. Gottesman's generosity will leave a lasting legacy, ensuring that future generations of medical professionals have the opportunity to receive an education without the burden of financial hardship.

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