The Reporter: June 1997, Vol.8, No.3
Celebrating Rudin Scholars

Photo by Jonathan Smith

Pictured from left are Dr. Pardes, Jack Rudin, and Dr. Meltzer.

Every year, for the past 27 years, selected Health Sciences students have received scholarship support from the Rudin family. Through their philanthropic organizations--The Louis and Rachel Rudin Foundation and May and Samuel Rudin Family Foundation--this New York family helps students pursue careers in health care. The scholars and members of the Rudin family were honored at a reception in May.

In 1970, the first Rudin Scholars were medical students. That year, the program also sponsored nurses in a renal transplantation program. Over the years, Rudin Scholarships have broadened to include not only medical students, but also nursing students and occupational and physical therapy students. The program also sponsors P&S students who participate in programs offered through the Center for the Study of Society and Medicine.

Dr. Herbert Pardes, vice president and dean, said, "The first 16 students helped through the Rudin family have gone on to pursue health care careers. This year, the number of Rudin scholars totaled 43."

Also present at the ceremony was Dr. Jay Meltzer, P&S clinical professor of medicine and longtime physician for the Rudin family. Dr. Pardes credited Dr. Meltzer as being an important link for the support the Rudins have provided Columbia students.