Dr. Ruth L. Gottesman faced the loss of her husband, David Gottesman, in 2022. However, the legacy he left behind proved to be far more than cherished memories for her.
David Gottesman, a notable Wall Street financier recognized for his early investments in Berkshire Hathaway, bequeathed a remarkable $1 billion in stocks to his wife. In a simple directive, he urged her to ‘do whatever you think is right with it.’ Rather than embarking on extravagant personal pursuits, Ruth made a profound decision to channel the entirety of the funds towards a noble cause.
The recipient of this extraordinary donation is the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, the most economically challenged borough of New York City. This contribution stands as the largest ever received by any medical school in the nation.
Ruth’s connection to Albert Einstein College of Medicine traces back to her professional tenure, where she commenced as the director of psychoeducational services in 1968, as per The New York Times. Despite her retirement, Ruth, now 93, continues to serve as the chair of trustees for the esteemed institution.
Expressing her astonishment at her late husband’s significant financial legacy, she remarked, “He left me, unbeknownst to me, a whole portfolio of Berkshire Hathaway stock.”
With her generous endowment, Ruth ensures that the future of medical education at Albert Einstein College of Medicine is fortified. The donation will alleviate financial burdens for current fourth-year students, providing reimbursement for the spring 2024 semester, and subsequently offering free tuition to all incoming students from the fall semester onward. Notably, the annual tuition at Albert Einstein College of Medicine exceeds $59,000.
Ruth’s philanthropic gesture extends beyond monetary value, as it opens doors for aspiring medical professionals from diverse economic backgrounds. She expressed her joy, stating, “We have terrific medical students, but this will open it up for many other students whose economic status is such that they wouldn’t even think about going to medical school.”
The impact of Ruth’s generosity resonates deeply within Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Yaron Tomer, the Marilyn and Stanley Katz Dean, hailed her donation as a transformative force, revolutionizing the institution’s capacity to attract mission-driven students. He emphasized its significance, affirming, “We will be reminded of the legacy this historic gift represents each spring as we send another diverse class of physicians out across the Bronx and around the world to provide compassionate care and transform their communities.”
Ruth Gottesman’s altruism exemplifies the epitome of a humanitarian, leaving an indelible mark on medical education and fostering opportunities for future generations of physicians.
