A Message from President Riley

By Office of the President | Mar 5, 2024

As we welcome the month of March, it is a great time to celebrate some significant occasions that enrich our lives and communities.

Women play pivotal roles in shaping our societies, breaking barriers, and championing equality. During Women’s History Month, we honor and celebrate the meaningful contributions they have made and continue to make in every aspect of society.

SUNY Downstate celebrates its remarkable women, including Shirley L. Kauffman, M.D., who dedicated over four decades to pediatric pathology; Jacqueline S. Jackway, Ph.D., a longtime professor of anatomy and cell biology known for her research on retinal projections in the brain, notably in the thalamic region, and Mimi Halpern, Ph.D., a neuroanatomist exploring emotions and the limbic system.

We will proudly commemorate Doctor’s Day on March 30 with great appreciation for doctors across the globe whose compassion, expertise, and selfless commitment exemplify courage and sacrifice. Despite the obstacles they face, SUNY Downstate doctors continue to provide care, support, and healing, embody the spirit of compassion and humanity, and inspire us to persevere and remain united in the face of adversity.

Lastly, we eagerly anticipate Match Day on March 15. For medical students, Match Day is a culmination of years of hard work, determination, and sacrifice. It is a significant milestone as the next generation of physicians find out their destinations for further training that marks the start of their professional journeys.

As we celebrate these momentous occasions, let us recommit ourselves to supporting gender equality, honoring the invaluable contributions of healthcare professionals, and nurturing the bright minds entering the medical field. Together, we can impact a world where every individual is empowered to thrive and contribute to the betterment of society.

Happy Women’s History Month, Doctor’s Day, and Match Day to all!

Tags: Commemorative Months