IMPACT: Philanthropy News for the University of Miami (January 2021) by University of Miami

JANUARY 2021

IMPACT PHILANTHROPY NEWS FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

Landmark $126 million gift expands horizons for Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

An anonymous donor’s transformational gift of $126 million to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center—the largest single gift in the Stephen D. Nimer, M.D. University’s history— will accelerate cancer research, expand innovative treatment options, and further advance Sylvester’s standing as one of the nation’s preeminent cancer centers. Made in honor of Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., director of Sylvester and the Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research, the unrestricted gift was the bequest of a member of a family Nimer has known for decades. The family has turned to Nimer for guidance and support when facing health challenges, including cancer. “I am truly humbled by the magnitude of this

gift,” said Nimer. “I never expected to experience such immense generosity for simply answering the call to serve those in need. “I now want to honor this donor. With a gift of this size, it’s our goal to maximize its impact, ensuring that we invest in programs and people who can change outcomes for as many patients as possible. That will mean a legacy that lasts for generations to come,” Nimer said. Nimer is recognized as one of the world’s premier leukemia and stem cell transplant researchers and clinicians, and led the multiyear effort to secure National Cancer Institute designation in 2019, making Sylvester the only NCI-designated cancer center in South Florida and one of only two in Florida. Sylvester is part of UHealth—the University of Miami Health System and the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. “Sylvester’s preeminent national reputation is due in part to the single-minded dedication our physicianContinued on page 3

IMPACT PHILANTHROPY NEWS FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

1 Cover Story Landmark $126 million gift expands horizons for Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

New garden will grace Sylvester’s Pap Corps Campus Miami Dolphins Foundation makes $75 million commitment to Sylvester

The world-class Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center opens its doors

Endowment reaches its highest market value in the University’s history

Legacy at the U: The Batchelor Foundation’s far-reaching impact

Law students give back through social justice, pro bono work

Braman Family Foundation continues commitment to fight breast cancer

Celebrities’ virtual “class crashes” thrill and motivate students Publix Super Market Charities Jenkins Scholars’ virtual meeting

’Canes around the world make second annual Giving Day a success In-Home Homecoming Celebration brings ’Canes together in spirit

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Schools and Colleges

AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE After the most challenging year many of us have ever experienced, there is so much to be hopeful and grateful for. Even as we adapt amid changes and uncertainty, I find myself returning to a sense of gratitude for everything that has endured… and some things that are even better than they were before. Gratitude is a feeling of thankful appreciation, but it can also be a mindset—a way of looking at our lives, the people around us, and the world. Reflecting on the positive, not taking blessings or good fortune for granted, and expressing thankfulness are habits that can make us healthier, happier, and more optimistic, and strengthen our relationships. We in the University of Miami’s Development and Alumni Relations team work within a virtuous circle of gratitude. That circle begins and ends with our family of donors, whose philanthropy advances the U’s most important priorities: making good things happen across our campuses and in the wider community. You make it possible for us to fulfill our mission, and now more than ever, we want to express our gratitude for you and your generosity of spirit. Thank you for all you do for the U, and best wishes for a happy and healthy new year.

Joshua M. Friedman, CFRE Senior Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations

Continued from page 1 scientists have to those they serve,” said Jayne S. Malfitano, member of the University of Miami Board of Trustees, vice chair of the Sylvester Board of Overseers, and president of the Harcourt M. and Virginia W. Sylvester Foundation board. “The donor saw in our institution, and in Dr. Nimer in particular, the conviction and talent required to alleviate the suffering of so many

battling cancer. I am grateful for the trust they had in our work.” To maximize the donation’s impact, the anonymous gift will serve as a matching gift to leverage additional donations of $1 million or more to Sylvester. To date, philanthropists including The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research, Paul J. DiMare and the DiMare family, Steven Dwoskin,

Eric and Elizabeth Feder, and Annette de la Renta have met the matching challenge, donating $21 million in total to accelerate innovative research and bolster endowment funds for faculty chairs. “Sylvester is a leader in cancer care and research, and this tremendous act of generosity will have a profound impact on our work in this field,” said President Julio Frenk.

“The gift is an affirmation of the extraordinary vision and leadership of Dr. Stephen D. Nimer and our talented and passionate team of researchers, clinicians, faculty, and staff who are changing the way we prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer.” Maximizing philanthropic impact with matching gifts Donors have stepped up with generous contributions that leverage matching funds from the groundbreaking $126 million anonymous gift, doubling the effect of their philanthropy at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. • The Pap Corps Champions for Cancer Research, South Florida’s largest grassroots fundraising organization, has leveraged matching funds through the creation of the new Pap Cops Champions for Cancer Research Endowed Chair in Solid Tumor Research. • Paul and Swanee DiMare, longtime philanthropists to the University of Miami and the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, have made commitments to create the Paul J. DiMare Endowed Chair in Immunotherapy, a senior chair, and the DiMare Family Endowed Chair in Immunotherapy, to support a junior faculty member. These chairs will help to advance vital immunotherapy research and outstanding patient care at Sylvester. • Eric and Elizabeth Feder made a gift to establish the Eric and Elizabeth Feder Family Endowed Chair in Urologic Cancer Research. A board member and past chairman of the Dolphins Challenge Cancer Executive Committee, Eric, a member of Team Lennar, was also DCC X’s top fundraiser, raising $353,660 for cancer research at Sylvester. • The Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer

Research was established by the legendary fashion designer’s widow, Annette de la Renta. Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., is the inaugural chairholder. • The support of donor Steven Dwoskin has brought advanced cancer-fighting technology to Sylvester. The Dwoskin Proton Therapy Center opened in September with an intimate, socially distanced ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the new facility. Proton therapy allows tumors to be targeted with extreme precision,

The Dwoskin Proton Therapy Center houses Sylvester’s Varian ProBeam Compact proton therapy system. destroying cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues and organs, and potentially reducing side effects. Sylvester will also use proton therapy for clinical research to find new ways to conquer and prevent cancer. I MPACT • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1

New garden will grace Sylvester’s Pap Corps Campus Imagine a beautiful garden physicians, and volunteers. where cancer patients and their The Garden of Hope was a loved ones can find peace and dream of The Pap Corps since tranquility as they manage the Deerfield Beach campus was the stress and discomfort named The Pap Corps Campus of fighting the disease. The in 2016 after the organization’s Pap Corps Champions for historic $50 million pledge Cancer Research—one of the to Sylvester. Scheduled for largest volunteer fundraising completion in spring 2021, organizations nationwide, with the garden will feature a more than 50 chapters and stunning bronze-colored more than 22,000 members—is fountain, benches, plaques with (From left) Rayna Becker, Susan Dinter, Beverly making this garden a reality for inspirational sayings, and a Berkowitz, Linda Moses, Stavroula Christodoulou, pathway of multicolored bricks the patients who seek cancer and Stacia Anderson of The Pap Corps. care at Sylvester Comprehensive engraved with personalized Cancer Center in Deerfield inscriptions and dedications. Beach, known as The Pap Corps Campus. Lush landscaping, including shade trees and flowers, will In mid-December, The Pap Corps ceremonially surround the garden. broke ground on its eagerly anticipated Garden of Hope. Opportunities to support the project are open to all Only months earlier, they shared their vision for the through the purchase of dedicated bricks, plaques, and garden and brick campaign benefiting Sylvester’s research benches. This allows donors to honor a significant person and patient care through a virtual tour for members. while supporting The Pap Corps’ mission to fund cancer Co-hosted by Sylvester, the virtual event enabled research at Sylvester. participants to see renderings of the garden, featuring For a video about the Pap Corps Garden of Hope, bricks, benches, and plaques honoring loved ones, please click here: bit.ly/aplaceoftranquility

Miami Dolphins Foundation makes $75 million commitment to Sylvester Taking their dedication to fighting cancer to the next level, the Miami Dolphins have announced a game-changing $75 million commitment to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. During a news conference at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, the NFL team also unveiled a new name for the second decade of the Dolphin’s signature fundraising event for Sylvester, and a promise to support cancer research at the nationally recognized center year-round. What began as the Dolphins Cycling Challenge in 2010 will now be known as Dolphins Challenge Cancer. While the mission remains the same, the organization is taking a “one team, one fight” approach that will further build on the funds the DCC has 4

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Tom Garfinkel, vice chairman, president, and CEO of the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium, announcing the Miami Dolphins Foundation’s new commitment in November.

DCC by the numbers As it embarks on a second decade, the DCC is now the Dolphins Challenge Cancer, a new name to better reflect its vast and growing impact on cancer research at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami. DCC XI will take place on April 10, 2021. Here’s a look back at the first 10 years, by the numbers:

YEARS OF FUNDRAISING FOR LIFESAVING RESEARCH

TEAM FUNDRAISING EVENT IN THE NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE

DCCI

DCCX

411

3,921

PARTICIPANTS

CYCLING RIDES

EVENTS

$533,000

$6.2M

RAISED

10 YEARS

raised for innovative research at Sylvester in its first 10 years. “The DCC began 10 years ago with one goal in mind: to unite the community against one of the most insidious diseases of our generation,” said Tom Garfinkel, vice chairman, president, and CEO of the Miami Dolphins and Hard Rock Stadium. “In our first decade, DCC has raised more than $39.2 million for innovative cancer research at Sylvester. As we look to the next 10 years of impact, we realize it is time for us to evolve from an event into a year-round movement focused on the challenge the cancer community faces every day.” The funds raised by the DCC have directly supported cancer research and critical studies and made new treatments possible that have positively impacted and even saved lives. The support of the DCC assisted in Sylvester achieving the prestigious National Cancer Institute designation in 2019, raising the cancer center’s research and patient care to a new level of excellence. The DCC attracts thousands to ride, run, and walk to fight cancer. DCC XI, scheduled for April 10, 2021, includes plans for both an in-person event and a robust virtual component to accommodate safety concerns due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The in-person event will include four cycling rides and a 5K run/ walk, with all rides ending at Hard Rock Stadium. “The University of Miami is grateful to the Miami Dolphins Foundation for its renewed commitment to this extraordinary South Florida tradition,” said University of Miami President Julio Frenk. “The DCC has become a beacon of hope in South Florida,” Frenk said. “Together, we will continue to create a spirit of community around our cherished goal—giving patients the gift of life and freedom from the pain and suffering that comes from fighting cancer.” For more information on DCC XI, visit bit.ly/miamidolphinsfoundation

RAISED

30,000+ participants 100 corporate teams $39.2M raised

100 percent of participant-raised funds go to cancer research and critical studies, making new treatments possible that have improved and saved the lives of patients around the world.

Behind these extraordinary numbers are thousands of personal stories—courageous men, women and children who have battled cancer and the brilliant doctors and researchers at Sylvester who are fighting for a cure. Meet some of these heroes in Faces of the DCC, a digital report that documents the impact of this remarkable 10-year partnership.

I MPACT • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1

The world-class Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center opens its doors for comprehensive care and healing

A new era of rehabilitative care has dawned with the opening of the stateof-the-art Christine E. Christine E. Lynn Lynn Rehabilitation Center at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, dedicated to giving patients back their lives. The stunning 250,000-square-foot, nine-story structure on the Jackson Memorial Medical Campus houses 80 inpatient beds and features world-class amenities and next-generation rehabilitative technology. Designed to be one of the country’s elite facilities for patients recovering from traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, cancer treatment, and other complex conditions, the center was named in recognition of Christine E. Lynn of Boca Raton, a former nurse and prominent businesswoman and philanthropist who contributed $25 million toward the new facility. Every aspect of the facility underscores a focus on comprehensive care. The building’s layout ensures that clinical care and research share space, so that patients and families see the scientists who are developing treatments, and researchers interact with real people who need the results of their work—a constant reminder of the way 6

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Lynn Rehabilitation Center integrates academic study with the day-to-day treatment of patients. The family-centered design includes a sunny, lightfilled aquatic center with two therapy pools and an underwater treadmill, a café, and extensive public art installations. There are separate gyms for acute inpatient care, outpatients, pediatrics, and individual specialty care. To prepare patients for maximizing their real-world mobility, the center includes airplane seats, driving simulators, and a full-size car in the building. Private inpatient rooms are located on the top three floors of the tower. Other floors accommodate medical treatment rooms, a hair salon, two transitional apartments, a meditation space, staff offices, classrooms for residents and fellows, conference and collaboration spaces, and The Miami Project’s diverse operations. In addition to a basketball court and barbeque grill, the outdoor activity garden features a sculpture by worldrenowned artist Olaf Breuning that incorporates interactive knobs, wheels, steps, and pedals to help patients regain fine and gross motor skills. A third-floor outdoor terrace resembles a tranquil park, with areas for walking and sitting. Barth A. Green, M.D., co-founder and chairman of The Miami Project and the Ralph C. Wilson Chair in Neurosurgery, was enthusiastic about the new center’s future.

Physical therapy rehab with reduced gravity equipment helps patients work on recovering mobility and strength with less pain. “Lynn Rehabilitation Center not only represents a new beacon of hope for these very special patients and their families, but most important, is a unique facility where cutting-edge scientific and engineering knowledge is being translated into clinical care in real time, to the direct benefit of even the most complex and compromised patients,” he said. Part of Jackson Health System, Lynn Rehabilitation Center boasts

a multidisciplinary team of Jackson nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals working with physicians from the University of Miami Health System to produce successful outcomes. The technology incorporated into the new center will benefit The Miami Project’s neuroscientists, and the Lynn Rehabilitation Center will help the Miller School of Medicine to attract students interested in rehabilitation medicine and research.

Endowment reaches its highest market value in the University’s history Amid the disruption and volatility brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Miami’s endowment ended the last fiscal year at its highest-ever market value. As of May 31, 2020, the total endowment had reached the $1.05 billion mark, a positive 2.2 percent return for the fiscal year. The endowment distributed more than $41.9 million in the same period to support faculty, students, research, and academic programs across the University. “Endowed gifts are critical to the ongoing financial stability of the University,” wrote Jacqueline A. Travisano, executive vice president for business and finance and chief operating officer, in a message prefacing the endowment financial report. “They make it possible to sustain and maintain scholarships, fellowships, faculty positions, and programs in perpetuity.” The University currently has 1,476 endowed funds, with almost half—49 percent—allocated to student support. Thirty-five new funds were created in the past fiscal year. Because endowed chairs, scholarships, and programs are permanent gifts, endowment giving has a profound impact. Through endowed gifts, donors ensure that their philanthropic impact continues far into the future; create an enduring legacy; and provide perpetual financial support for their chosen areas of support. “As we all continue to navigate tremendous change and uncertainty in higher education and across all

industries, the value of a strong endowment cannot be overstated,” wrote Travisano.

12%

Academics

14% Faculty

Research

1,476 Endowed funds

15%

49%

Other

Student Support

Endowed funds created June 1, 2019, to May 31, 2020

I MPACT • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1

Legacy at the U: The Batchelor Foundation’s far-reaching impact Behind every great endeavor at the University of Miami, there is a dedicated team working together to realize a goal. And behind that team, you’ll likely find donors— caring individuals and organizations who catalyze that work by providing the resources to carry it forward. Since 1991, the Batchelor Foundation, Inc., has built a partnership with the University that has improved thousands of lives. With lifetime commitments of more than $40 million, ranging across several areas and all

Research, named in memory of George Batchelor’s grandson, to inspire high-impact discovery and new therapeutics to improve the health of their young patients. The foundation then expanded the research award program, creating The Batchelor Fellows and Scholars awards to encourage young and talented investigators, many of whom would otherwise have difficulty securing funding for experimental ideas early in their careers. Shu Wu, M.D., a leader and mentor in neonatology and lung development, is a two-time recipient of the Micah Batchelor award, having been honored in 2008 and 2019. “The Batchelor Foundation support has made all the difference in my career as a physician- scientist and helped me build a dynamic and collaborative research team,” said Dr. Wu, professor of pediatrics and the director of the Neonatal Development Biology Laboratory in The Batchelor Foundation provides ongoing support for the University of Miami the Division of Neonatology. Pediatric Mobile Clinic, which offers primary health care services to children in The 2019 Batchelor Award Miami-Dade’s underserved areas. allowed Dr. Wu to continue her research in understanding how lung campuses, the Batchelor Foundation is one of those injury leads to brain injury and neurodevelopmental legacy builders. impairment in premature infants which led to a $1.93 Aviator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist George E. million grant from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Batchelor created the foundation in 1990 to support non- Institute at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). profit organizations that promote the health, education, “I now have the opportunity to build on what and well-being of children, animal welfare, and the we have learned in the laboratory and apply it in our preservation of South Florida’s natural environment. neonatal intensive care unit,” said Dr. Wu, “Thanks to Much of the Batchelor Foundation’s extraordinary the Batchelor Foundation, our research is more dynamic, generosity has been directed to children’s health more translational, and has a real impact on the quality initiatives in the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine of life of premature babies.” Department of Pediatrics, beginning with The Batchelor “The Batchelor Foundation support was Children’s Research Institute—a high-tech laboratory fundamental to my research as a junior faculty member,” and clinical space for researchers to study pediatric said Augusto Schmidt, M.D., Ph.D., recipient of the cancer, gastroenterology, food allergies, immunology and 2019 Micah Batchelor Scholar Awards. “Without it, I infectious diseases, cystic fibrosis and other pulmonary would not have been able to get the preliminary data diseases, and nephrology. required for NIH funding and expand my research Alongside the creation of The Batchelor Children’s into new strategies and therapies that will improve the Research Institute, the foundation launched Micah neurodevelopmental outcomes for preterm babies.” Batchelor Award for Excellence in Children’s Health As a result of the foundation’s support, Dr. Schmidt 8

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joined the prestigious Society for Pediatric Research mentorship program. “These are the kind of opportunities that aren’t available to young investigators,” said Dr. Schmidt. “Our best ideas, the quality of our research, our passion for new discoveries—they succeed through seed funding from institutions like the Batchelor Foundation.” “It is the enduring gift of $15 million from the Micah Batchelor Endowment that helps support the brilliant research of our scientists, researchers, and learners,” said Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer of the Miller School. “We are so appreciative of the Batchelor Foundation’s visionary generosity, which is helping to improve the health of children everywhere.” The Batchelor Foundation has also extended its support to The University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for

Nancy Batchelor and foundation trustees Jon Batchelor and Sandy O’Neill Batchelor, LLME ’02 Autism and Related Disabilities, which serves over 13,000 families in the tri-county area, and to the Donna E. Shalala MusicReach Program at the Phillip and Patricia Frost School of Music, which enriches the education of

A flying laboratory for gathering information about climate and human health, the Rosenstiel School’s Helicopter Observation Platform also enjoys the support of The Batchelor Foundation. underserved youth in MiamiDade through unique music education programming while providing teaching and community engagement opportunities for Frost School students. “The generosity of the Batchelor Foundation provides families with hope,” said Julio Frenk, president of the University of Miami. “Their work supports very talented researchers, who point the way to the future, and reflect the excellence and the relevance to which the University continuously aspires.” At the Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science, the Batchelor Foundation supports the Shark Research and Conservation program and its director, Neil Hammerschlag as well as the Rosenstiel School’s Helicopter Observation Platform, a flying laboratory for obtaining information about climate and human health; and the Aircraft Center for Earth Studies. “Over the past decades, the Rosenstiel School has been the beneficiary of generous philanthropic support from the Batchelor Foundation for our marine conservation research and our Aircraft Center for Earth Studies. Their continued support of our

school has greatly contributed to position us at the forefront of Earth system science schools.” said Roni Avissar, dean of the Rosenstiel School. Beyond funding support, trustees Jon Batchelor and Sandy O’Neill Batchelor, LLME ’02, actively give their time and talent. Mr. Batchelor, who is also the Foundation’s executive director, is a longtime University of Miami trustee and serves on Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Board of Overseers. Ms. Batchelor is also the Foundation’s chair and chief executive officer and has served on the Rosenstiel School’s board of visitors. Through its integral partnership and far-reaching support, the Batchelor Foundation has created a legacy that has helped to advance the University’s mission of transforming lives. “Our mission to promote good health and education, while improving the quality of life for the most vulnerable among us also drives many of UM’s outstanding programs,” said Mr. Batchelor. “George’s legacy to better humanity through service and innovation truly lives on in our partnership with this extraordinary institution.” I MPACT • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1

Law students provide support through U-LINK-funded social justice projects, COVID-19-related pro bono work Amid increasingly urgent calls to address the nation’s persistent problems of social and racial injustice, the University of Miami Laboratory for Integrative Knowledge (U-LINK) has recognized three interdisciplinary social justice projects of the School of Law with competitive grant funding. The first project, an initiative from Miami Law’s Center for Ethics and Public Service, is addressing high COVID-19 positivity rates in West Coconut Grove. Partnering with pastors in the community, the project is using and analyzing data on the spread of the Miami Law students’ pro bono work benefits the community and beyond. virus, designing surveys, and planning the (Pictured: Timothy Loftus, third-year law student, and the Rev. Nathaniel implementation of interventions. Robinson III of Greater St. Paul A.M.E. Church in West Coconut Grove.) The second grant awardee team, the school’s Environmental Justice Clinic, will projects, reaching out to assist neighbors in need who are develop and implement a series of presentations and facing COVID-19-related challenges. conversations focused on antiracism and climate justice. The school’s Immigration Clinic successfully The project will address the need to ensure that climate pursued a lawsuit seeking the release of people in ICE change adaptation is just and equitable and does not detention. In response to the suit, filed by the clinic compound other drivers of inequality.

“Clearly, the teams are generating the kind of innovative ideas that result from meaningful interdisciplinary integration—and that funders are interested in.” Responding to the underrepresentation of Black and African Americans in STEM fields, the third project is implementing an innovative tiered mentorship and research internship program for University of Miami undergraduates and public high school students. “Clearly, the teams are generating the kind of innovative ideas that result from meaningful interdisciplinary integration—and that funders are interested in,” said Susan Morgan, associate provost for research development and strategy and co-director of U-LINK. U-LINK was launched by the Office of the Provost in 2016 to support interdisciplinary, collaborative, problem-based inquiry to address the complex challenges of society. Several of Miami Law’s outstanding clinics are supported by charitable giving, and law students are paying it forward through their clinics’ pro bono 10

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and partners, a federal judge ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement to reduce by hundreds the number of people detained in three Florida detention centers. Students have provided pro bono support to emerging entrepreneurs through the Startup Practicum, helping clients to determine their eligibility and complete their applications for new loan programs created by the CARES Act. The Startup Practicum is also representing clients who are directly involved with the COVID-19 frontline response. In other projects, students in The Eleanor R. Cristol and Judge A. Jay Cristol Bankruptcy Pro Bono Assistance Clinic have staffed hotlines to provide financial information to people impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak, and students in the Health Rights Clinic have won several social security cases to obtain disability and retroactive benefit payments for clients.

Braman Family Foundation continues commitment in the fight against breast cancer In an effort to elevate care, research, and outcomes for patients battling breast cancer, the Braman Family Foundation recently announced a $2.5 million gift to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine. The gift enhances Sylvester’s ability to recruit and retain worldclass researchers, physicians, and scientists, as well as all nurses, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, technicians, and staff needed to

has long had a transformative impact at Sylvester in the fight against breast cancer. In 2002, they made a formative $5 million gift to launch the Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute, and usher in a new era in research, clinical trials, and worldclass care. The vision then, remains the same today: to develop new means of prevention, diagnosis, and research breakthroughs that lead to powerful treatments for patients, with the help of compassionate support programs, all within one cancer center. “This substantial act of generosity will have a profound impact on our work in the field of breast cancer,” said President Julio Frenk. “The Braman Family

Irma and Norman Braman continue life-saving work at the Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute. “At our family foundation, we value the partnership we have with Sylvester, built over the years in our collective battle against breast cancer,” said Debi Wechsler, whose parents, Norman and Irma Braman, created the foundation. “We believe in Sylvester’s commitment to outstanding patient care and to toplevel research. Hopefully, together we can eradicate the suffering of thousands of breast cancer patients.” The Braman Family Foundation

Foundation’s commitment reflects the kind of vision that helps us build the talent, progress, and innovation required to deliver the best patient care and most advanced treatment options for our patients.” The family and their foundation have been longtime supporters of the University of Miami. Their generosity also includes enhancing

student life. The Braman Family Foundation partnered with the Miller family to rebuild the Hillel building on campus, which was renamed the Braman Miller Center for Jewish Student Life. The Bramans’ dedication to fighting breast cancer stems from their own experience of watching a family member battle the disease for almost 20 years before succumbing to it. Since then, it has been the family’s mission to find ways to better detect and treat breast cancer, which will impact an estimated one in every eight women in their lifetimes. Since its inception, The Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute has made huge strides in the way physicians assess breast cancer risk, diagnose the disease in its earliest stages and predict which treatments will be most effective for each patient. In 2010, a state-of-the-art laboratory was dedicated so scientists could work collaboratively while discovering new clues to fight breast cancer. “The generosity of the Braman Family Foundation is extraordinary,” said Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., director of Sylvester, the Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research, and professor of medicine, biochemistry and molecular biology at the Miller School. “This very generous gift will enhance our ability to continue to provide the finest patient-centered care; it enables our physicians and our scientists to provide innovative patient care and conduct promising cancer research.” I MPACT • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1

Celebrities’ virtual “class crashes” thrill and motivate students

View A-Rod class crash video here. Continuing a trend that began in April, when superstar Barbra Streisand surprised students at the University of Miami Phillip and Patricia Frost School of Music with an uplifting virtual message, several famous alumni have given generously of their time to engage online with students, encouraging and inspiring them during this challenging period. Multitalented singer and actor Omar Lopez-Cepero, B.M. ’04, who studied classical vocal performance at the U and most recently appeared in The Unsinkable Molly Brown on Broadway, showed up unannounced during a Frost School lecture. Welcoming ’Canes to the new

In lieu of their customary annual dinner, representatives of Publix Super Market Charities met virtually with members of University of Miami leadership and administration and the University’s 12 George W. Jenkins Scholarship recipients. Students shared highlights of their experiences at the U and expressed their gratitude to Publix Charities, which has supported the education of Jenkins Scholars at the University for over 22 years.

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semester, Lopez-Cepero shared perspectives from his career as a singer and actor, and offered tips on how to navigate the industry. Heisman Trophy winner Gino L. Torretta, B.B.A. ’91, the most celebrated football player in the University of Miami history, crashed a University of Miami Patti and Allan Herbert Business School class. A member of Iron Arrow and past president of the University of Miami Alumni Association, Torretta, now manager of institutional sales with Gabelli Asset Management and founder, chairman, and chief executive officer of Touchdown Radio, gave students his tips and insights on being a true ’Cane, in and out of the classroom. A few weeks later, 14-time Major League Baseball AllStar Alex Rodriguez, honorary alumnus ’04, also crashed a Miami Herbert Business School class. With his close ties to the University as a member of the Board of Trustees, namesake of the Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field, and creator of an endowed scholarship program for Boys and Girls Club alumni, “A-Rod” took questions from students just beginning the MBA program and generated excitement about their journeys at the U. Rodriguez wished the students luck as they embarked on their studies. “You’re in the greatest school on the world. I love the U,” he said. “I’m very excited for all of you.”

’Canes around the world support the U to make second annual Giving Day a success On October 1, ’Canes and friends from far and wide joined forces to help the University of Miami surpass its Giving Day goal of 2,020 donors in 24 hours. A total of 2,432 donors from around the U.S. and 15 countries gave to support students, programs, research, and the areas they care most about. Together, alumni, faculty, staff, parents, and friends raised $1,517,372 including challenge and matching gifts. The all-digital event included social media activities and a scavenger hunt highlighting the impact

of philanthropy at the U. Giving Day was positively received on social media, where donors received live thank-you messages for their gifts; other donors received personalized thank-you videos. Forty-two gifts were converted through texting, and 45 percent of donors made their first gift in fiscal year 2021. The Patti and Allan Herbert Business School received the largest number of gifts. Thanks to all who made our second annual Giving Day a success!

In-Home Homecoming Celebration brings ’Canes together in spirit Alumni, students, families, and friends around the globe joined the University of Miami’s first-ever virtual In-Home Homecoming Celebration in October. Capping a week of student-led Spirit Week activities, the event helped cheer the Hurricanes football team on to victory against the University of Virginia Cavaliers the next day. The match-up was the annual Pink Game, a partnership between Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Department of Athletics in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Kourtney Gibson, B.B.A. ’03, president of the University of Miami Alumni Association and a member of the University’s Board of Trustees, hosted the lively and entertaining hour-long event. Kicking off the pep rally with a welcome message, President Julio Frenk remarked, “Although we are doing things differently this fall, some things—the ones that really count—haven’t changed. Our values, resilience, and commitment to our mission, and to each other,

are stronger than ever.” The family-friendly event featured a message from Head Football Coach Manny Diaz and nostalgic videos highlighting past homecoming games and festivities. Audience members tested their knowledge with an interactive quiz on ’Canes football trivia, led by co-host Lissette Gonzalez Chinchilla, B.A.M. ’01, meteorologist on CBS4 Miami. The virtual celebration also focused on the University’s beloved mascot, Sebastian the Ibis. Allison Williams, B.S.C. ’06, a reporter for ESPN, spoke with three alumni and former Sebastians about their experiences as the mascot. Audience members learned how to draw a perfect

Sebastian with Disney artist and author Randy “RJ” Ogren, B.Ed. ’72, who designed the second-generation Sebastian costume in 1980. After a segment spotlighting the Frost School of Music Band of the Hour, the band gave a rousing performance, followed by giveaways of ’Canes swag. The rally concluded with the singing of the alma mater in a moving moment that validated President Frenk’s statement at the beginning of the hour. “This virtual homecoming shows that being physically distant can’t keep us from showing our ’Canes spirit and Hurricane pride,” he said.

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Schools and Colleges ATHLETICS

Alumnus remembered, repaid the U’s help with a generous bequest Charles M. Karpas, M.D., of Naples, FL, never forgot the financial assistance he received from the University of Miami during his medical residency, and wanted to repay it with a lasting gift to the U. After his passing in September at the age of 96, the University received Karpas’s $600,000 bequest to benefit the Carol Soffer Indoor Practice Facility. A longtime supporter of Hurricane athletics and a Golden Cane Society donor for more than 20 years, Karpas—known as Chuck to friends—started classes at the University in 1942, but his studies were interrupted when he withdrew to serve in the Navy during the Second World War. After four years of service, he was discharged with multiple honors and earned his undergraduate and medical degrees from other institutions. Karpas returned to the University of Miami for a medical residency, receiving financial aid that helped to make it feasible. He then went on to a successful career of nearly 70 years, including more than three decades as director of pathology at Naples Community Hospital. For those same 30-plus years, every fall Karpas could be found 14

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with friends on the 50-yard line at University of Miami football games. In recognition of his loyalty and generosity, the newly opened studentathlete nutrition center, located in the Hecht Athletic Center, is named in his honor.

BUSINESS

Patti Herbert memorial challenge doubles impact of giving to business school On the first anniversary of the University of Miami Patti and Allan Herbert Business School’s naming, the school launched a new challenge to honor the memory and legacy of

be matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000. Tireless supporters of their alma mater, Patti, who passed away earlier this year, and Allan, B.B.A. ’55, M.B.A. ’58, have made a profound impact across the campus and within the University of Miami community. Miami Herbert Business School was named in October 2019, in honor of the Herberts’ transformative $100 million in lifetime giving. Patti and Allan’s loyalty and generosity continue to inspire others to add their own support. The Herbert Challenges are an opportunity for alumni and friends of the U to give back and help the school to remain at the vanguard of

Challenge in memory of Patti Herbert matches gifts, honors the legacy of loyal and devoted alumna Patti Herbert, B.B.A. ’57. This new matching challenge, one of several Herbert Challenges at Miami Herbert Business School, will help to advance the school’s most important priorities, securing and enhancing its standing as a global leader in business education. Gifts to the Miami Herbert Business School Fund in memory of Patti will

business education in its new era. Two other Herbert Challenges over the last year also brought support for some of the school’s key initiatives. The Herbert Challenge Annual Giving Alumni Match ran from October to December 2019 and raised over $150,000, which was matched by the Herberts. These unrestricted gifts help to ensure resources for

curriculum development, experiential learning, financial aid, research, and much more. To date, more than $1.1 million has been raised through the ongoing Herbert Challenge Legacy Gift Match. Designed to encourage planned giving, the first 10 donors to name the Miami Herbert Business School in their estate plans will get 10 percent (up to $10,000) matched back to scholarships in their names for the following year. Future Herbert Challenges will include an endowed faculty chair match, a strategic programs match, and a scholarship endowment match. Participants in any of the challenges are doubling the impact of their contributions while honoring Patti’s memory and the Herberts’ extraordinary generosity. Click here for more information or to give to the Herbert Challenges.

ENGINEERING

Interim engineering dean honored with endowed scholarship In recognition of his service as interim dean of the University of Miami College of Engineering, Dean Dan Berg received a beautiful watch. But he also received something timeless: an endowed scholarship in his name, ensuring that his legacy at the college will go on in perpetuity. University trustee George E. “Ed” Williamson, II, who chairs the engineering Dean’s Advisory Committee, led an initiative among

current and former committee members to establish the Dr. Dan Berg Engineering Endowed Scholarship Fund. The scholarship honors Berg’s extraordinary commitment and dedication to the College of Engineering. A member of the prestigious National Academy of Engineering, Berg began regularly visiting the college more than 30 years ago, when he helped organize the annual International Conference on Management of Technology. He has been a distinguished research professor at the college for the last 12 years and took on the role of interim dean in June 2019. Berg’s 30-plus-year relationship with U is not going to end with his tenure as interim dean. He plans to stay on and support the college as distinguished professor. As a scholarship donor himself, Berg is touched by the creation of a scholarship in his name. “It’s an emotional issue for me, that the alumni and the trustees and the people who have had a lifelong connection have recognized me,” Berg said. “This is a great institution, and I keep telling everybody, the best is yet to come.”

LOWE

Foundation endows photography lecture series at the Lowe The Arnold and Augusta Newman Foundation has made a $500,000 endowed gift to the Lowe Art Museum, securing the future of a long-standing photography lecture series and honoring the legacy of the late photographer Arnold Newman, D.F.A. ’81.

The Arnold and Augusta Newman Foundation supports photographers and photography students and helps to disseminate photographer Arnold Newman’s work. (Photo credit: Mary Ellen Mark, ©2000) Since 2013, the biannual Arnold and Augusta Newman Endowed Lecture Series in Photography has brought a wide range of leading contemporary photographers to campus to address students, faculty, and guests from the broader community. “We are grateful to the Newman Foundation for its continued support of the Lowe,” said Leonidas Bachas, dean of the University of Miami College of Arts and Sciences. “This endowed gift ensures that aspiring photographers and admirers of photography can continue to explore their passion while also paying tribute to the creative genius of Arnold Newman.” Newman studied art at the University between 1936 and 1938 and went on to a highly successful career as a studio photographer, capturing the likenesses of such notable subjects as John F. Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Georgia O’Keefe, and Truman Capote. Many of his I MPACT • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1

portraits can be seen in the Lowe’s photography collection. Newman received an honorary doctorate from the University in 1981. Previous Newman lecturers have included such eminent photographers as Dawoud Bey, Elliott Erwitt, Sally Mann, Susan Meiselas, and many others. The lecture series “has been a highlight on the museum’s programming calendar for nearly a decade,” said Jill Deupi, the Lowe’s Beaux Arts director and chief curator. “I am thrilled that we can look forward to many, many more for years to come.”

MEDICINE

Miller School alumni and supporters organize white coats and stethoscopes for new students A first-year student originally from Antigua, Joshua Warner was eagerly awaiting the ceremony that would signal the start of his medical career. Warner and his classmates in the University of Miami’s Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine Class of 2024 were about to receive white coats, a symbol synonymous with brilliant and compassionate physicians. “I think wearing my first white coat is going to feel quite surreal,” said Warner, who attended a summer program at the Miller School in 2018. Fittingly, the white coats were provided primarily by Miller School alumni who know first-hand the importance of support during those critical early days of medical school. Their generosity, along with the support of faculty and other donors, played a significant role in the 2020 John G. Clarkson Freshman White Coat and Pinning 16

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Alumni and other donors gifted each member of the Miller School of Medicine’s Class of 2024 with a white coat and a stethoscope. Ceremony, which was held at Hard Rock Stadium’s Fountain Plaza. The open-air screening space was repurposed to safely orchestrate the socially distanced event, one of the most important rites of passage for first-year students, as they took the Hippocratic Oath wearing their new white coats with Miller School pins attached to the lapels. While in-person attendance was limited to the Class of 2024 members, key Miller School leadership, faculty, and alumni due to COVID-19 restrictions, more than 1,000 participants joined the live stream of the celebratory event. Alumni made much of the event possible, including spearheading a significant effort to raise more than $50,000 to ensure that all 205 incoming students received white coats and stethoscopes. The Miller-branded stethoscopes came with messages of encouragement submitted by alumni who donated to the white coat and stethoscope funds. “Today is the beginning of an incredible journey into fulfilling your promise and potential as the physicians of tomorrow,” said Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer of the Miller School of Medicine. “Your profession has always carried a great privilege and profound duty to the health of individuals and, by extension, the betterment of humankind.”

Students were grateful to safely experience such a memorable milestone during a pandemic. “This ceremony really represents the culmination of a lot of hard work to get here,” said Sanjana Satish, a M.D./M.P.H. candidate in the Class of 2024. “It’s definitely better than being at home putting on my white coat in front of a computer screen. I really appreciate our alumni and supporters for giving us this moment.”

MUSIC

Gift helps the Frost School call the tune for the future of music Moved by the impact of the pandemic on the arts and passionate about preparing young musicians for success, an anonymous donor stepped forth to support the Phillip and Patricia Frost School of Music

Anonymous grant supports the Frost School’s plans to adapt and thrive amid changes.

with a transformative grant of $1.425 million. The gift, all to be spent in the 2020-2021 academic year, is intended to solidify Frost’s ranking as the curricular and programmatic exemplar among the country’s greatest music schools and help it to emerge from the current situation in a leading position. With some orchestras, operas, and venues challenged to the brink, sea changes in the recording industry, and other shifts in the professional music landscape, music students and graduates now face a particularly challenging environment. “The world of music is evolving at a commensurate pace with other industries,” said Shelton G. “Shelly” Berg, dean of the Frost School. “My colleagues and I have long recognized that fact, and have built a distinctive education to provide our graduates with deep and broad experience and skills, so they can confidently enter a world of expanding opportunities and career paths.” The donor chose the Frost School for the grant because of the school’s ongoing efforts to provide relevant training, differentiate itself with cutting-edge curricula, and excel in and beyond the current environment. There is a potential for similar support in the years ahead, dependent upon the Frost School’s progress and results against established metrics. “Our donor is passionate, strategic, and shrewd,” Berg remarked, “and the Frost School is a strategic philanthropic investment. As we show a return on investment through the measurable progress of our students and alumni, the donor will continue to support our mission, which ultimately is to have a profound effect on music itself.”

Blumark invests in student registered nurse anesthetists through a national education enhancement fund.

NURSING

Blumark gift supports conference attendance, educational enrichment for nursing students A gift from Blumark Tax Advisors, LLC, a Michigan-based financial service and tax advisory firm, will help students at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies take advantage of special opportunities for educational enrichment. Over the next five years, Blumark’s $50,000 gift will provide financial assistance for student registered nurse anesthetists (SRNAs) to attend national anesthesia conferences, virtually or in person, and other learning opportunities outside of the classroom. “Blumark’s generous investment in our students sets a strong philanthropic example that supports our commitment to developing highly educated certified registered nurse anesthetists (CRNAs),” said Juan Enrique Gonzalez, CRNA, director of the school’s nurse

anesthesia program. “It will be a great incentive for our students to know they have some help to attend these very special professional programs that really get at the heart of the profession.” “There was a clear need for this,” said Shannon Klug, chief executive officer of Blumark. “Attending conferences and participating in industry associations is critical in creating relationships and setting the foundation for a strong professional future.” The firm has been supporting front-line health professionals since 2005 and specializes in working with the CRNA community. A debriefing room in the school’s Simulation Hospital for Advancing Research and Education (S.H.A.R.E.™) has also been named after Blumark in recognition of their long-term commitment to SRNAs. “Nurses are the heart of health care,” said Klug. “Our investment in students is really about the longterm relationship. It’s about working together with students just starting off in their careers. We are truly in this for the long haul.” I MPACT • J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 1

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