New York Medical College raises $570,000 for student support and research

New York Medical College raised $570,000 on October 21 to fund scholarships and biomedical research. The funds were collected during the institution's annual Founder’s Dinner, which took place at Greentree Country Club in New Rochelle, New York. More than 375 attendees from academic, health care, business, and community sectors gathered for the event. The college is a member of Touro University.

The gathering coincided with the 166th anniversary of the college's founding. Alan Kadish, M.D., who serves as president of both New York Medical College and Touro University, addressed the crowd. "Each year, this dinner reminds us NYMC’s mission is just as relevant today as it was when it was founded 166 years ago," Kadish said. He noted that the financial support allows faculty and students to advance their work in medicine and patient care.

The evening featured two primary honorees. John J. Connolly, Ed.D., received the Alfred B. DelBello Distinguished Service Award. Connolly chairs Castle Connolly Private Health Partners, LLC, and previously served as president and chief executive officer of New York Medical College from 1981 to 1992. The award recognizes individuals who advance the college's mission through leadership and contributions to science.

Zvi Lefkovitz, M.D., received the Distinguished Service and Leadership Award. Lefkovitz is a professor of radiology and director of leadership development at the college. He held the position of department chair from 2009 to 2026 and served as the director of radiology at Westchester Medical Center during the same period. The citation cited his commitment to education, research, and institutional leadership.

The college also paid tribute to Alfred B. DelBello, a former member of the board of trustees from 2016 to 2024. Dee DelBello, owner of Westfair Business Publications, accepted the Jackson E. Spears Community Service Award on his behalf. The award honors DelBello's legacy of public service and contributions to the college.

Stacy Velarde, chief development officer, thanked the donors for their contributions. "Tonight’s results speak to the strength of this community," Velarde said. She emphasized that the gifts directly support students and life-saving research initiatives.

The funds raised will be allocated to specific initiatives. Scholarships will help students pursue their education in health care professions. Additional resources will support biomedical research programs at the college. The event concluded with the presentation of the awards and the recognition of the college's historical milestones.