Honoring the Legacy of Dr. William McCormack

By Office of the President | Jun 5, 2024

Congratulations to Kunika Chahal, COM 2026, the 2024 recipient of the William McCormack, M.D. Scholarship, named in tribute to William McCormack, M.D., retired SUNY Downstate Chief of the Infectious Diseases Division, Fellowship Program Director, and SUNY Distinguished Teaching Professor.

The William McCormack Scholarship Fund, launched approximately six years ago, annually recognizes and rewards medical students at SUNY Downstate who excel in scholarly projects related to the study of Infectious Diseases. A committee reviews submissions and awards one or more students varying amounts up to $3000 in any given year. At least six students have received varying amounts since its inception.

Ms. Chahal, whose award was based on COVID vaccine hesitancy among minority women of childbearing age, obtained her MPH from the Downstate’s School of Public Health in 2021 and is a member of the COM class of 2026

Congratulations to Ms. Chalal! I extend my gratitude to Michael H. Augenbraun, MD, FACP, FIDSA, Professor of Medicine, Vice Chair of the Department of Medicine, and Chief of the Infectious Diseases Division, who continues to promote and recognize the work of deserving students in honor of Dr. McCormack’s legacy.