SUNY Downstate Introduces “Library Giving Tree”
Nov 7, 2006
Honoring the generosity of those who have supported SUNY Downstate's Medical Research Library, SUNY Downstate recently unveiled its “Library Giving Tree.” The Giving Tree graces the left wall of the Library entrance. The wood and metal sculpture is adorned with the observation of the British essayist Augustine Birrell, “Libraries are not made, they grow.”
The Giving Tree addresses the growing research needs of students and faculty by paying respect to those who have contributed funds to the library and is inscribed with donors' names. These future endowments will allow the Medical Research Library to continue providing essential medical journals, books, and databases.
Dr. John C. LaRosa, president of SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, pointed out that Downstate is the “only fully operational academic-medical library in Brooklyn.” Its unique collection traces back to Downstate's founding in 1860.
With a donation of as little as $25 patrons can have their name engraved in the Memory Book at the foot of the Giving Tree. Endowments between $20,000-$75,000 will be honored with inscriptions on paving stones, while endowments between $100-$9,999 will be noted with the names of donors on either a bronze, silver, or gold leaf. Special inscriptions on an acorn and tree branch are also available.
“It isn't how much you give,” Dr. LaRosa said, urging those in attendance to get their names on the Giving Tree.
“Our goal is that by next year, this time, every leaf will be filled,” said Dr. JoAnn Bradley, senior vice president for institutional advancement and philanthropy, adding, “As a matter of fact it is our goal that soon we'll have another tree on the other wall.”
For anybody interested in becoming apart of the Giving Tree or for more information contact 718-270-7410 for a “Giving Opportunities” brochure. Information is also available on the Downstate website, www.downstate.edu. SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University is the only academic medical center in Brooklyn, serving more than 2 million people within the borough, and is located at 450 Clarkson Avenue.
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About SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University
Downstate Health Sciences University in Brooklyn is one of four academic health centers (AMCs) in The State University of New York (SUNY) 64-campus system and the only SUNY AMC in New York City dedicated to health education, research, and patient care for the borough’s 2.7 million residents. Its flagship hospital, University Hospital at Downstate (UHD), is a teaching hospital and benefits from the expertise of Downstate’s exceptional medical school and world-class academic center research facilities. With a staff of over 800 physicians representing 53 specialties and subspecialties, Downstate offers comprehensive healthcare services to the community.
UHD provides high-risk neonatal and infant services, pediatric nephrology, and dialysis for kidney diseases and is the only kidney transplantation program in Brooklyn. Beyond its clinical expertise, Downstate houses a range of esteemed educational institutions, including its College of Medicine, College of Nursing, School of Health Professions, School of Graduate Studies, and School of Public Health. Downstate fosters innovation through its multifaceted biotechnology initiative, the Biotechnology Incubator and BioBAT, which support early-stage and more mature biotech companies.