Donor Stories

Isobel Cleland and Samantha Manekin

The Cleland Legacy of Giving Runs Deep

The Clelands’ all-encompassing and supportive philanthropic approach has the power to change lives.

The late Bruce Cleland and his family have made an indelible mark on healthcare and countless patients who benefit from their philanthropic investment in UMMS.
 
Neil Kishter

Changing Lives Through Technology

Financial services executive Neil Kishter is energized by a world of possibilities—the possibility of improving care, saving lives, and one day eradicating cancer.

His deep belief—which his wife, Emily, shares—is that philanthropy will improve the course of treatment and patients’ lives.
 
Nina and Shali Mohleji

Finding Peace Through Philanthropy

Nina and Shali Mohleji celebrate their mother’s legacy by supporting head and neck cancer research.

Sisters Nina and Shali use philanthropy as a productive space to transform their pain and honor their mother.
 
Bruce Poole

Board Service Comes Naturally to Shock Trauma Chair

Continuous improvement fuels the Honorable D. Bruce Poole’s leadership style.

Bruce has served on the Shock Trauma Board of Visitors for over a decade. He has a deep appreciation for the dedicated team and world-class services provided by the organization.
 
Alison Brown

Caring for a Community

The retired president of the University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus, Alison Gates Brown, MPH, BSN, built her legacy on compassion, commitment, and connection.

Alison began her career path nearly 45 years ago, caring for other people as a nurse, laying the foundation for her life’s work.
 
Dr. Kevin Cullen

The Strength of Philanthropy in Medicine

Dr. Kevin J. Cullen reflects on his tenure as UMGCCC director and how philanthropy fueled its transformation.

UMGCCC has made tremendous strides over the past two decades in the battle against cancer, largely thanks to the exceptional leadership of Dr. Cullen.
 
Carolyn Frenkhil

Transforming Lives Through Generosity

Philanthropy creates ripples that transform lives beyond initial expectations.

An informal conversation between philanthropist Carolyn Frenkil and Ronna Hertzano, MD, PhD evolved into a dialogue about Dr. Hertzano’s research, which ultimately changed its trajectory.
 
Drs. Brodie

Philanthropy Fortifies Research’s Cumulative Effort

Harry Brodie, PhD, honors the life of his wife, Angela Brodie, PhD, and their dedication and commitment to scientific research.

Dr. Brodie understands firsthand the importance of philanthropy in the world of science and research.
 
Chip Doetsch

The Value of Board Service

Philanthropist Chip Doetsch steps down as UMCH Board Chair to put on a new board hat for the UM School of Medicine.

For more than 10 years, Chip has advocated and fundraised for UMCH’s littlest patients.
 
Amazon donation

Amazon Supports UMCH

A post on Facebook served as the catalyst for the start of a relationship between UMCH and Amazon.

What started as a donation of toys, clothing and notebooks has turned into so much more.
 
Corporal Zonn

Coming Full Circle

Phillip Zonn has been on both sides of Shock Trauma—as a police officer  and as a patient.

That perspective provided him with a clear picture of what he wanted to do when he had the opportunity of gifting a $2,500 donation from SERVPRO to a nonprofit organization of his choice.
 
Barry and Lisa Stoler

'We Are What We Speak'

Barry and Lisa Stoler recognize the importance of giving back and its impact on creating positive change for generations to come.

Giving back is deeply rooted in the Stoler family’s way of life—in fact, it may be in their DNA.
 
Susan Mertes

Investing in the Future of Cancer Care

After losing her husband to cancer, Susan Mertes makes a difference in the lives of other cancer patients through philanthropy.

When Susan visualizes the new Roslyn and Leonard Stoler Center for Advanced Medicine, she can already see the profound impact the state-of-the-art facility will have on patient care.
 
Ed and Jennifer St. John

Transforming Lives Through Philanthropy

Ed and Jennifer St. John’s significant gift will undoubtedly inspire advancements in cancer care, research, and discovery.

The couple made a transformational gift to name the Edward and Jennifer St. John Stem Cell Laboratory, a space that supports innovative cell therapy research.
 
Drs. Lee Kleiman and Rodney Taylor

The Power of Unrestricted Giving

Lee Kleiman, MD, FACS and his family made the significant commitment as an unrestricted gift.

The Kleiman family’s gift to the Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery helped renovate space and expand patient care capacity.
 
Dr. Alan Levitt and Dr. Janice Finkelstein

A Healing of the Mind, Body and Soul

The Adapted Sports Program motivates patients to get back to living.

Dr. Alan Levitt and his wife Dr. Janice Finkelstein have long been philanthropic supporters of the Adapted Sports Program at the University of Maryland Rehabilitation & Orthopaedic Institute.
 
Chuck and Mary Meyer

The Long-term Impact of Philanthropy

Through philanthropy, high-quality care and advancements in research continue.

After a successful double lung transplant, Chuck and Mary Meyer made a substantial philanthropic gift to support a new surgeon in the University of Maryland Lung Transplant Program.
 
Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Inpatient Unit

The Healing Power of Music

Music is more than a form of entertainment; it is also a means to heal.

Thanks to a combined gift from three generous donors, the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Inpatient Unit is equipped with a state-of-the-art music system that brings calm to countless children.
 
Kamryn Lambert and Tatum Benzing

Through Grief, Families Turn to Giving

In the wake of a tragic loss, some parents and families give back to honor their child's life.

Two families, each of whom experienced a tragic loss, agreed to share their story with us.
 
Doug and Erin Becker

A Gift of Gratitude

Philanthropy is a Catalyst for Innovation

Doug and Erin Becker established the Becker Family and Sylvan/Laureate Foundation Fund to combat hematologic cancers.
 
Schwartz family

From One Generation to the Next

Many families have their own set of traditions. For the Schwartz family, their tradition is philanthropy.

Joseph and Corinne ‘Peachy’ Schwartz’s longtime support of UMMC and belief in philanthropy lives on through the generosity of their children and grandchildren.
 
Dominic Grimaldi

A Final Act of Kindness

Before his passing, Dominic Grimaldi set up a planned gift in honor of his care provider, Dr. Michael Benitez.

Thanks to thoughtful planning, his gift will benefit the University of Maryland Department of Cardiology for years to come.
 
Ashton and Adair Newhall

An Unexpected Venture

The powerful role of venture capital and philanthropy

Venture capitalists Ashton and Adair Newhall sourced more than 1.4 million units of personal protective equipment for the University of Maryland Medical System; they also gave a transformational philanthropic gift to the UMMS COVID-19 Response Fund.
 
Chris and Jill Davis

Champions for Children

Once again, Jill and Chris stepped up to the plate by making a $3 million gift

Baltimore Oriole Chris Davis and his wife, Jill, recently made a lead gift to construct the Evelyn Kay Davis Congenital Hybrid Catheterization Suite, a state-of-the-art unit that will benefit countless young lives.
 
Carole and Michael Upman

New Fund Aids Catastrophically Injured Patients

THE UPMAN ENDOWED FUND FOR R ADAMS COWLEY SHOCK TRAUMA CENTER PATIENTS provides support for lodging, transportation, and food

Carole Upman has devoted much of her life to helping those who have suffered a catastrophic injury.
 
Rob Engel

Showing Appreciation through Philanthropy

A new Lokomat for the University of Maryland Rehabilitation & Orthopaedic Institute

Rob Engel's belief in the Lokomat is so strong that he made a philanthropic gift to help purchase a newer model.
 
Roz and Len Stoler

Influencing our Past, Present and Future

The Stoler's generosity runs deep at the University of Maryland Medical Center

Roslyn and Leonard Stoler make transformative gift that will reshape UMMC campus.
 
Bobby Ginsberg

The Power of Relationships

For S. Robert "Bobby" Ginsberg, it's always been about relationships

After 20 years, Bobby Ginsberg’s partnership with the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer continues to evolve.
 
Dr. Rapoport

Philanthropy Funds New, State-of-the-Art Immune Cell Laboratory

Peter Angelos makes lead gift in memory of late sister; Neil and Emily Kishter and Hamish and Christine Osborne also make significant gifts

The state-of-the-art facility will allow scientists to create the next generation of cell therapies for advanced and resistant forms of leukemia and lymphoma.
 
video

Transforming Medicine

Thank you to our partners in philanthropy who make transformative gifts that literally change the face of medicine.
 
David and Karen Richardson

One Step at a Time

An alarming illness leads the Richardson family to experience our advanced network of care

The compassion, respect and advanced expertise of the medical teams at each UMMS affiliated hospital inspired David and Karen to make a philanthropic gift.
 
Gavin Class

Philanthropy Runs in the Family

After surviving a family member's tramatic illness, the Class family gives back

Gavin Class survived a tramatic illness thanks to the expert care he received at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.
 
Stop the Bleed Program

The Kahlert Foundation supports lifesaving STOP THE BLEED campaign

This groundbreaking effort is possible thanks to the Kahlert Foundation

Through the national Stop the Bleed campaign, the renowned R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center is encouraging first aid training among the public.
 
Polo Match

A Summer Tradition

Ronny Maher Memorial Polo Match

Celebrating 20 years, the Ronny Maher Memorial Polo Match continues to benefit the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.
 
Brent Myers

Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Planned giving in focus

Through a major gift and bequest intention, Brent Myers will benefit mothers and babies in the new labor and delivery unit.
 
Shock Trauma Center

Nine Days and Forever Grateful

Diane wanted to support the organization that worked so hard to save her husband’s life

After unexpectedly losing her husband, Diane Boragno and her family continue to honor him through giving to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.
 
Gilman students

The Future of Philanthropy

Being philanthropic can happen at any age

Gilman students raised more than $27,000 for the Drs. Rouben and Violet Jiji NICU.
 
Heroic Gifts

Heroic Gifts to the Shock Trauma Critical Care Tower

Special video series featuring the generous donors who made significant gifts to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center Critical Care Tower, making the new building a reality.
 
Mr. and Mrs. Kotler

UMMC Partners in Philanthropy

We are honored to share the stories of a few of our donor partners in this video feature.
 
Jack and Emily Howell

A Second Chance at Life

Jack and Emily Howell give back to the Department of Radiation Oncology

Cancer patients with deep-seated tumors can soon access a new, cutting-edge treatment thanks to the Howells.
 
J. Richard Awalt

Leaving Behind a Lasting Legacy

Through a bequest, Mr. Awalt will forever be remembered for his generority

Mr. Awalt's bequest will impact the lives of countless patients at UMMC.
 
Dana Deighton and Tiffani Tyer

Outrunning Cancer

A patient and her caregiver complete the Maryland Half Marathon and raise more than $10K

When faced with a challenge, Dana Deighton does not shy away—she confronts it head on.
 
Koser family

A Light at the End of the Tunnel

One family shares their experience in the newly opened neonatal intensive care unit

The arrival of a new baby is an exciting time for any parent. But when a complication arises, those excited jitters can quickly change to worry and even distress.
 
Jackie Jones

Making Strides

Annual 5K expands its reach and continues to offer diabetes education

Jacqueline “Jackie” Jones continues to stay on pace with educating the public about the health effects of diabetes.
 
Doc at the NICU

A Special Visitor

Doc Clemens from Brave Beginnings visits the NICU

It is not every day that we welcome such a unique - and fuzzy - visitor to the University of Maryland Children’s Hospital.
 
Ron Maher Jr.

Q&A with Philanthropist, Ron Maher Jr.

Organizer of the Ronny Maher Memorial Polo Match to benefit the Shock Trauma Center

We spoke to Ron Jr. about his experience with the Shock Trauma Center and why he keeps the Polo Match going after all of these years.
 
Pat Casey

Navigating Uncharted Waters

After a life-threatening injury, Pat gives back in honor of the teams that restored her health

A generous gift to honor the Shock Trauma Center and Acute Care/Emergency Surgery teams "in recognition of their skills in putting the pieces back together and giving my body the time it needed to heal."
 
Richard Schwartz

Q&A with Philanthropist, Richard Schwartz

Entrepreneur and philanthropist continues his family’s legacy of giving to UMMC

We talked with him about his history with the University of Maryland Medical Center and what drives him to personally fund key programs and initiatives.
 
Jackie Jones

One Step at a Time

Unstoppable Educator Jackie Jones Gives Back to Support Diabetes Patients

This lifelong learner has discovered a new purpose: using her time and talent to help others.
 
Debbie Levy and Dozer

Serendipity Strikes Close to Home

Author and cancer survivor celebrates strong connections to UMGCC

By what can only be called serendipity, a recent project has strengthened Debbie Levy's connection to the University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center.
 
Marlene Greenebaum

Celebrating 25 Years of Survival

Marlene Greenebaum gives all new meaning to the term “survivor”

In celebration of her triumph over cancer, Marlene Greenebaum and her family give back to the University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center.
 
Sigma Phi Epsilon at 2015 NICU Reunion

Sigma Phi Epsilon's Pledge of Support to UMCH

A volunteer opportunity turns into a pledge of support for the new NICU

What makes Sigma such a unique story beyond fraternity brothers helping Maryland’s tiniest babies is their decision to develop a one-on-one partnership with a local cause.
 
Ed St. John

Altruism Abounds

Renowned leader lends time and resources to Shock Trauma Center

“Put others first,” this motto has long served as a driving force behind visionary business leader and philanthropist Edward St. John.
 
Mr. and Mrs. Hoffman

Living Legacies

BELOVED FRIENDS MAKE A DECEASED COUPLE’S PHILANTHROPIC DREAMS COME TRUE BY NAMING NEW NICU

The Jiji Foundation makes a significant gift to name the new NICU, The Drs. Rouben and Violet Jiji Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
 
Neil Kishter

Provider of Peace

BOARD MEMBER ENHANCES CANCER CARE AS A LASTING TRIBUTE

Neil Kishter has committed to making a difference by enhancing the environment for cancer patients, families, and staff at UMGCC.
 
Neil Kishter

Dedicated Duo

FATHER AND SON AID UMMC ACROSS THE BOARD

The Doetsches’ dedication to UMMC began more than 20 years ago, when George Doetsch, Jr. joined the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center Board of Visitors—still a member today.
 
Whitney Sibol

Surviving and Thriving

WHITNEY SIBOL - IN HER OWN WORDS

Whitney shares her trauma experience to encourage and help other trauma survivors and gives back to help the very team that saved her life.
 
M&T Bank

Community Minded

M&T BANK PARTNERS WITH UMMC TO KEEP BALTIMORE STRONG

"When you’re a community bank, you take care of the cities and businesses where you live and work.”
 
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Pioneering Progress

PASCAL’S GIFT TO UMMC HELPS OTHERS GET WELL

Robert "Bob" Pascal has made a life-long habit of giving back to the people and places that help him thrive, ensuring others have a chance to flourish as well.
 
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Trauma Trailblazers

SENATOR KELLY AND WIFE JANET HAVE FOSTERED SHOCK TRAUMA EFFORTS IN INNUMERABLE WAYS

An indispensable partner who worked tirelessly alongside Dr. Cowley to establish the Shock Trauma Center, Senator Kelly has championed trauma care, research, and training at UMMS for more than 35 years.
 
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New Hope for Cancer Treatment

WEITZMAN FAMILY HELPS ADVANCE RESEARCH

To move the Greenebaum Cancer Center’s revolutionary research forward at a rapid pace, an infusion of funding was neededand it came in the form of a critical philanthropic investment from the Weitzman Family.
 
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Cutting-Edge Care

ROBOT PREPARES PRECISE DRUG DOSES AT THREE TIMES THE SPEED

Through a vital gift of $1.2 million from Roslyn and Leonard Stoler, UMGCC has added a revolutionary new technology to our cancer-fighting arsenal: a chemotherapy robot that prepares drug doses three times faster than a pharmacist or technician.
 
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UMMC Midtown Campus Pathologist Gives Back

JOHN BRAUN, MD, CHIEF OF PATHOLOGY AND DIRECTOR OF LABORATORY FOR UMMC MIDTOWN CAMPUS

Through the generosity of donors like Dr. Braun, UMMC Midtown Campus continues to expand its network of care in key areas like chronic disease management.
 
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Honoring a Mother’s Memory

AN INSPIRATIONAL BOOK BY SIBLINGS FRED SILBER AND BEENY FINKELSTEIN

Mr. Silber and Mrs. Finkelstein choose to honor their beloved mother, who lost her battle with breast cancer, by composing a book of poetry accompanied by extraordinary photographs of roses.
 
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Gifted Scholars

SUMMER INTERNSHIP DRAWS THE FINEST UNDERGRADS FOR UNIQUE RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

Training the next-generation of cancer experts is a top priority at UMGCC. With help from the Nathan Schnaper Summer Research Intern Program, we continue to educate these bright young scholars, starting as early as undergraduates.
 
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A Legacy of Giving and Service

UMMC MIDTOWN CAMPUS AUXILIARY CELEBRATES OVER A CENTURY OF SUPPORT

For more than 100 years, the UMMC Midtown Campus Auxiliary has worked tirelessly to provide philanthropic support and volunteer service to the UMMC Midtown Campus.
 
Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum

Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum

PATRONS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND GREENEBAUM COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER

In 1996, a $10 million gift to the University of Maryland Medical System and the University of Maryland School of Medicine to name the Cancer Center.