RUSH University Endowed Faculty Positions

Endowed Faculty Positions of RUSH University

In 1963 Trustee A. Watson Armour III established the Jean Schweppe Armour Professorship of Neurology in honor of his wife, Jean. It was the first endowed professorship established at a private hospital in the United States, and it launched RUSH’s distinguished tradition of endowed faculty positions. Today there are more than 100 endowed faculty positions at RUSH.

Endowed faculty positions enable RUSH to recognize the accomplishments of physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, community engagement leaders and scientific investigators who have dedicated their careers to the future of science, medicine, health equity and patient care. These positions provide financial resources, distributed annually from the endowment, that fuel the work of our leading faculty and support RUSH’s efforts to recruit and retain world-renowned health care experts dedicated to improving health for all.

Endowed positions also help attract the very best and brightest students from around the world, who come to RUSH to study and work with esteemed faculty members. The future of health care is built on this synergy between endowed faculty and talented students. Students, residents and fellows learn side by side with distinguished practitioner-teachers — a concept for health sciences education that was defined at RUSH and emphasizes faculty members’ commitment to integrating practice, research and education. Reliable funding through endowed support for esteemed faculty advances this tradition and RUSH’s deep commitment to health equity. RUSH faculty and students are immersed in community programs that provide learners with hands-on experience in real-world settings and support efforts to eliminate health disparities.

The following list of RUSH’s endowed faculty positions represents a long tradition of philanthropic partnerships forged between RUSH and grateful patients, families, alumni, foundations and businesses in the Chicago area

and beyond. RUSH is deeply grateful for these donors’ foresight and investment in our mission, which continually yields innovations and discoveries that transform care for our patients — and those far beyond RUSH who benefit from our scholarship. Each gift to endowed faculty positions demonstrates our supporters’ confidence in and commitment to our mission to improve the health of the individuals and diverse communities we serve.

We are proud to share the following chronological overview of RUSH’s endowed positions and express our gratitude to all those who have made them possible.

1963

The Jean Schweppe Armour Professorship of Neurology

The Jean Schweppe Armour Professorship of Neurology was the first endowed professorship established at a private hospital in the United States. Trustee A. Watson Armour III created the professorship to honor his wife, Jean, for her leadership as a volunteer and member of The Woman’s Board of RUSH University Medical Center.

1965

The John W. and Helen H. Watzek Professorship of Biochemistry

Industrialist John W. Watzek Jr. established this professorship to honor his parents. Watzek’s gift, which ultimately established the professorship, was inspired by his relationship with Richard B. Capps, MD, and others at RUSH.

1967

The Willard L. Wood, MD, Professorship of Rheumatology

Charles S. Pillsbury established this professorship with a gift from his estate honoring Willard L. Wood, MD, a 1930 graduate of RUSH Medical College. Wood was a member of the faculty for more than 45 years. Wood’s family and many grateful patients also contributed to the fund in his memory.

1968

The Harriet Blair Borland Chair of Pathology

Trustee Chauncey B. Borland established the Harriet Blair Borland Chair of Pathology to honor his mother, Harriet. They shared a deep interest in clinical pathology, and she supported this area of research throughout her life.

The Richard B. Capps, MD, Professorship of Hepatology

Richard B. Capps, MD, and his wife established this professorship with outright and estate gifts supporting the fund as well as additional gifts from family, friends and grateful patients of Capps. The professorship recognizes his outstanding medical and scientific accomplishments.

The Josephine Dyrenforth Professorship of Gastroenterology

Josephine Dyrenforth established this professorship with a gift from her estate in appreciation for the excellent care provided to her husband, Arthur Dyrenforth, a well-known Chicago attorney.

The Woman’s Board Chair of Pediatrics

The Woman’s Board Chair of Pediatrics was the first endowed chair of pediatrics at any hospital in the United States. It was also the first significant endowed gift from The Woman’s Board of RUSH University Medical Center.

1969

The

Elodia Kehm Professorship of Hematology

Elodia Kehm established this professorship with an estate gift supporting research for the cause, cure and prevention of cancer and related diseases. Kehm and her husband, August Kehm, were the owners of Kehm Construction.

The Bishop Anderson Professorship of Religion and Medicine

Lacy Withers Armour and Charles P. Anderson, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago, established this professorship to support research, education and inquiry into the ethical and moral questions concerning religion, science and medicine. Armour and her husband, Laurance Armour Sr., were strong supporters of RUSH University and many other Chicago institutions.

The Mary and John Bent Professorship of Cardiovascular Thoracic Surgery

Mary and John P. Bent established this professorship to support the educational and research application of cardiovascular science. John Bent was actively involved in RUSH University Medical Center for more than 50 years, serving as a member and president of the Board of Trustees. He negotiated the merger of St. Luke’s and Presbyterian hospitals, antecedent institutions to RUSH University Medical Center.

The Harry Boysen, MD, Professorship of Obstetrics and Gynecology

The Woman’s Board, members of the Board of Trustees and grateful patients established this professorship to honor the accomplishments of Harry Boysen, MD, chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, during his 25-year career. Boysen delivered generations of babies in West Side clinics and for prominent families across the city of Chicago. He played a key role in the merger of Presbyterian and St. Luke’s hospitals in 1956, the reactivation of RUSH Medical College and RUSH’s union with Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital to form RUSH-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in 1969.

The Ralph C. Brown, MD, Chair of Internal Medicine

This chair was established by the family and friends of Ralph C. Brown, MD, a graduate of RUSH Medical College. He served as a professor of medicine and a member of the medical staff until his death in 1954. Brown’s son, R. Gordon Brown, MD, also a RUSH graduate, continued in his father’s footsteps as president of the RUSH Medical College Alumni Association, senior attending physician in Internal Medicine and life trustee of the RUSH University Medical Center until his death in 1996.

The John M. Simpson Professorship of Obstetrics and Gynecology

The John M. Simpson Professorship of Obstetrics and Gynecology was established by Trustee John M. Simpson to support research in the area of obstetrics and gynecology. Simpson served as a Trustee of RUSH University Medical Center and its antecedent institutions for more than 50 years.

1971

The Thomas J. Coogan Sr., MD, Professorship of Immunology

Marjorie Lindheimer Everett established this professorship in memory of her father, Benjamin F. Lindheimer, and in tribute of Thomas J. Coogan Sr., MD, for his outstanding service. Her father was the owner of Arlington Park, Washington Park and Balmoral race tracks. Coogan was a specialist in internal medicine and cardiology, senior attending physician and associate professor of medicine at RUSH.

The James Lowenstine Professorship of Internal Medicine

This professorship was established in 1971 by the Lowenstine Foundation to honor James R. Lowenstine, chairman and chief executive officer of C entral Steel and Wire Co. It was established to inspire and promote RUSH’s philosophy of patient-centered care and especially the clinical training of the family doctor.

1972

The J. Bailey Carter, MD, Professorship of Cardiology

Ruth Carter established the J. Bailey Carter, MD, Professorship of Cardiology with an estate gift to honor her late husband, J. Bailey Carter, MD, who was a well-known professor of cardiology and a RUSH faculty member from 1928 to 1938.

The Stanley G. Harris Sr. Professorship of Psychiatry

The Stanley G. Harris Sr. Professorship of Psychiatry was established in memory of Stanley G. Harris Sr. in honor of the leadership he provided to RUSH University Medical Center. Harris was a member of the family who founded the Harris Trust and Savings Bank of Chicago.

1973

The Stanton A. Friedberg, MD, Endowed Chair of Otolaryngology and Bronchoesophagology

Family, friends and grateful patients established this chair in memory of Stanton A. Friedberg, MD. Friedberg was a graduate of RUSH Medical College, emeritus professor, former department chair and former president of the medical staff at RUSH University Medical Center.

1974

The Jack Fraser Smith Professorship of Surgery

Bertha Spaeti Smith established this professorship in memory of her husband, Jack Fraser Smith. Its purpose is to recognize and honor outstanding physicians and surgeons in RUSH’s Department of Surgery.

1975

The Francis N. and Catherine O. Bard Professorship of Physiology

This professorship was established with a gift from the estate of Trustee Francis N. Bard. He and his wife, Catherine, were longtime friends of RUSH University Medical Center and strong supporters of its programs.

The Otho S. A. Sprague Professorship of Pathology

This professorship was established to recognize the Otho S. A. Sprague Memorial Institute. It was created with a gift from the estate of Otho

S. A. Sprague, a civic leader in Chicago at the turn of the 20th century. The institute has supported research at RUSH since 1938 in the biochemistry, immunology, microbiology and pathology departments.

1977

The William A. Hark, MD - Susanne G. Swift Professorship of Orthopedic Surgery

The William A. Hark, MD - Susanne G. Swift Professorship of Orthopedic Surgery was established with a gift from Hark’s wife and a second gift from the estate of grateful patient Susanne G. Swift in recognition of the excellent care Hark provided. Additional gifts from RUSH University Medical Center staff and the Department of Orthopedic Surgery have supported this fund.

1978

The Robert C. Borwell Professorship of Neurology Trustee Robert C. Borwell established this professorship to support research and development of innovative therapies for multiple sclerosis and related diseases. Borwell was a founding member of the Anchor Cross Society, which honors RUSH’s most loyal donors.

The John L. and Helen Kellogg Deanship of the College of Nursing

The John L. and Helen Kellogg Foundation established this deanship in memory of John and Helen Kellogg as part of a larger gift to RUSH University College of Nursing. This commitment also named the Kellogg Pavilion and created the John L. and Helen Kellogg National Center for Excellence in Nursing at RUSH University Medical Center.

The Samuel G. Taylor III, MD, Professorship of Oncology

This professorship was established in honor of Samuel G. Taylor III, MD, by his friends, patients and colleagues. Taylor graduated from RUSH Medical College in 1932. He was professor emeritus of internal medicine, founded the Section of Medical Oncology at RUSH and remained involved until his death in 1997.

1980

The Helen Shedd Keith Professorship of General Surgery

Mary and John Bent established this professorship in tribute to Mary’s mother, Helen Shedd Keith. Keith was the first member of St. Luke’s Hospital Woman’s Board and later a member of the combined boards of Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Hospital. She was a founding member of the Anchor Cross Society and a generous donor to RUSH University Medical Center.

1981

The

James A.

Campbell, MD, Distinguished Service Chair

The James A. Campbell, MD, Distinguished Service Chair was established by a small group of former chairs of the RUSH University Medical Center Board of Trustees. The chair recognizes the vision, imagination and personal dedication of the medical center’s first president.

The Clark Wylie Finnerud, MD, Professorship of Dermatology

Una Finnerud established this professorship in tribute to her husband, Clark W. Finnerud, MD. Her husband graduated from RUSH Medical College in 1915 and completed his internship at Presbyterian Hospital. He was a member of the RUSH faculty from 1919 to 1942.

The Muehrcke Family Professorship of Nephrology

Robert C. Muehrcke, MD, and his family established this professorship in recognition of the training Muehrcke received at RUSH, especially from Robert C. Kark, MD, professor of internal medicine at RUSH Medical College.

1984

The William Gottschalk, MD, Professorship of Anesthesiology

The William Gottschalk, MD, Professorship of Anesthesiology was established with a gift from the estate of Patricia Gottschalk to honor her late husband, William Gottschalk, MD, a distinguished member of the Departments of Anesthesiology and Obstetrics and Gynecology. Members of RUSH’s Department of Anesthesiology have also contributed to this professorship.

The Max S. Sadove, MD, Professorship of Anesthesiology

This professorship was established to honor Max S. Sadove, MD, former chair of the Department of Anesthesiology, with gifts from members of the department, grateful patients and friends. The professorship supports educational initiatives as well as research.

1985

The Coleman Foundation Professorship of Blood and Bone Marrow Transplantation

The Coleman Foundation established this professorship to strengthen resources in the Midwest for cancer research and treatment. It honors Thomas Hazen Thorne, the former director of the foundation, who died of leukemia in 1984.

The Woman’s Board Professorship of Child Psychiatry

The Woman’s Board of RUSH University Medical Center established this professorship to serve the psychiatric needs of the children in the community. It is one of the first endowed professorships in child psychiatry in the nation and the second endowed professorship established by The Woman’s Board.

The James B. Herrick, MD, Professorship of Cardiology

Charles J. Roberts and his wife established this professorship in recognition of the significant contributions of James B. Herrick, MD, to the fields of cardiology and internal medicine. Herrick graduated from RUSH Medical College in 1888 and later became a member of the faculty. Herrick also served on the Presbyterian Hospital staff as a specialist in cardiovascular diseases for most of his career. He is credited with the discovery of sickle cell anemia during his time as a RUSH physician.

The Klaus E. Kuettner, PhD, Professorship of Osteoarthritis Research

This professorship was established by Ciba-Geigy AG, a Swiss pharmaceutical company. It honors Klaus E. Kuettner, PhD, for his many contributions to advancing our understanding of osteoarthritis. This professorship supports research with the hope of conquering arthritis as one of mankind’s most widespread afflictions.

The Charles J. and Margaret Roberts Professorship of Preventive Medicine

This professorship was established with a gift from the estate of grateful patients Charles J. Roberts and his wife, Margaret, to recognize the late George W. Stuppy, MD, for the care and friendship he provided. Roberts, who spent his professional career in the Chicago meatpacking industry, and his wife were generous supporters of RUSH and directed their trust to create this professorship in preventive medicine, as well as the George W. Stuppy, MD, Professorship of Arthritis.

The George W. Stuppy, MD, Professorship of Arthritis

This professorship was established with a gift from the estate of Charles J. Roberts and his wife, Margaret, to honor their special relationship with George W. Stuppy, MD. It recognizes Stuppy’s distinguished career of nearly 50 years as a physician, scientist and teacher at RUSH University Medical Center.

The Claude N. Lambert, MD - Helen S. Thomson Professorship of Orthopedic Surgery

This professorship was established with a generous gift from the estate of Helen S. Thomson, a patient and longtime friend of the late Claude N. Lambert, MD. Lambert was at the forefront of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery’s rise to prominence and was a member of the RUSH faculty for 40 years.

1988

The Alla V. and Solomon Jesmer Professorship of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine

This professorship was established with a generous gift from the estate of Solomon Jesmer in tribute to his late wife, Alla V. Jesmer, and the care they both received at RUSH’s Johnston R. Bowman Health Center. Solomon Jesmer hoped to advance research in gerontology and geriatric medicine.

The Catharine and R. Winfield Ellis - Philip N. Jones, MD, Professorship of University Affairs

This professorship was established through an estate gift from R. Winfield Ellis to recognize the importance of the patient-physician bond, upon which RUSH University Medical Center has been built. In honoring their friend and physician, Philip N. Jones, MD, Ellis and his wife, Catharine, directed this gift to financial assistance for future health care providers educated at RUSH University.

The John W. Curtin, MD, Professorship of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Honoring John W. Curtin, MD, this professorship was established by the Board of Trustees of RUSH University Medical Center with significant support from the Crown family, George Daubert, Terrence Dillon and his wife, Wade Fetzer III and his wife, William A. Thomas Sr. and his wife, grateful patients, students, colleagues and friends. Curtin was a professor of surgery and served as the former chair of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery for 25 years until his retirement in 1989.

The Dr. Glenn G. and Blanche S. Ehrler Professorship of Obstetrics and Gynecology

This professorship was established through an estate gift from Glenn G. Ehrler, MD, and his wife. Ehrler was a graduate of RUSH Medical College in 1931. He completed his internship at RUSH University Medical Center and enjoyed a successful career in surgery.

The Cynthia Oudejans Harris, MD, Professorship of Psychiatry

The Cynthia Oudejans Harris, MD, Professorship of Psychiatry was established through the dissolution of the Stanley G. Harris Sr. Trust, of which RUSH was a beneficiary. It was established in honor of Cynthia Oudejans Harris, who was the daughter of former Trustee Stanley G. Harris Sr. and the sister of former Life Trustee Stanley G. Harris Jr. She dedicated her life to the practice of psychiatric medicine.

The Independence Foundation Professorship of Nursing Education

This professorship was established through the generosity of the Independence Foundation of Pennsylvania to advance nursing education and promote the pivotal role of nursing in the 21st century.

The Joseph and Florence Manaster Foundation Professorship of Multiple Sclerosis

This professorship was established with a gift from the Joseph and Florence Manaster Foundation. Florence Manaster lived with multiple sclerosis. Her husband, Joseph, stipulated in his will that the monies he left to the foundation be used to provide compassionate care for people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

The Colonel Robert R. McCormick Professorship of Diagnostic Imaging

This professorship was established through a generous gift from the Robert R. McCormick Charitable Trust. Col. Robert R. McCormick was a well-known civic leader and editor and publisher of the Chicago Tribune who made many significant contributions to the city of Chicago. The charitable trust was divested in 2008 and is now the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, which remains committed to supporting RUSH.

The Stanley G. Harris Family Professorship of Psychiatry

The Stanley G. Harris Family Professorship of Psychiatry was established through the dissolution of the Stanley G. Harris Sr. Trust, of which RUSH was a beneficiary. This professorship pays tribute to the Harris family’s legacy of commitment to RUSH University Medical Center. Stanley G. Harris Sr., a longtime RUSH trustee, established two other endowed professorships through the Harris Trust — the Cynthia Oudejans Harris, MD, Professorship of Psychiatry and the Stanley G. Harris Sr. Professorship of Psychiatry.

1990

The Frances T. and Lester B. Knight Endowed Professorship of Gynecologic Oncology

At the direction of Frances T. Knight, this professorship was established by the Lester B. Knight Charitable Trust in tribute to her late husband. The professorship also recognizes Frances T. Knight for her foresight and commitment to RUSH and honors George D. Wilbanks, MD, for the excellent care he provided. Its purpose is to further diagnose and treat ovarian cancer through education and research.

1991

The Parkinson’s Foundation Chair of Neurological Sciences

The Parkinson’s Foundation Chair of Neurological Sciences was originally established by the United Parkinson Foundation. It pays tribute to the United Parkinson Foundation — now merged to become the Parkinson’s Foundation — which has helped the Parkinson’s disease program at RUSH achieve and maintain international renown.

The Crown Family Professorship of Orthopedic Surgery

This professorship was established by the Crown family and recognizes its special interest in the area of orthopedics for the study of joint replacement. Members of the Crown family established a legacy of support for RUSH that dates back several decades. They have generously supported research, patient care and community initiatives across RUSH.

The Dr. Ralph and Marian C. Falk Professorship of Biochemistry

The Dr. Ralph and Marian C. Falk Medical Research Trust established this professorship to further the study of osteoarthritis and cartilage physiology. It pays tribute to the Falks for their commitment to the advancement of patient care through scientific investigation and the exploration of medical science. Ralph Falk, MD, was the co-founder and owner of Baxter International.

The Grainger Chair of Psychiatry

The Grainger Chair of Psychiatry was established by The Grainger Foundation and represents its dedication to advancing research and treatment in the field of psychiatry. The Grainger Foundation and the Grainger family’s legacy of support for RUSH spans nearly 50 years.

The Morton International Professorship of Orthopedic Surgery

This professorship was established by Morton International when its chairman, Sterling Morton, joined the RUSH University Medical Center Board of Trustees in the 1940s. Research conducted with support from this professorship benefits countless individuals who live with lower back pain.

The Henry P. Russe, MD, Deanship of RUSH Medical College

The Henry P. Russe, MD, Deanship of RUSH Medical College was established by family, friends, students and colleagues of Henry P. Russe, MD. Russe was dean of RUSH Medical College from 1981 to 1991, and the deanship recognizes his tireless commitment to the practice of medicine, medical education and administration. Funds from the deanship are used to sustain the research of young investigators who are working to establish their careers.

The James A. Hunter, MD, University Professorship

As the first universitywide professorship established to recognize and perpetuate outstanding contributions in any discipline, this professorship was created with support from friends, colleagues and grateful patients of James A. Hunter, MD. Hunter was a teacher, mentor and exemplar to thousands of medical students and residents in specialty training, and he was a member of the RUSH faculty from 1959 to 1997.

The Dr. Andrew and Peg Thomson Professorship of Internal Medicine

The Dr. Andrew and Peg Thomson Professorship of Internal Medicine was established to honor RUSH physician and Trustee Andrew Thomson, MD, and his wife, Peg, a member of The Woman’s Board. The establishment of this professorship was announced on the occasion of Andrew Thomson’s retirement from active medical practice.

The Charles Arthur Weaver Professorship of Cancer Research

This professorship was established with an estate gift from Charles Arthur Weaver. RUSH University Medical Center President Leo M. Henikoff, MD, with unanimous approval by the Board of Trustees, determined cancer research to be an appropriate focus for the professorship. The funds provide support for research efforts within the RUSH University Cancer Center.

The Mary Denny Weaver Professorship of Cancer Research

This professorship was established with a gift from the estate of Charles Arthur Weaver to honor his wife, Mary Denny Weaver, who died of complications from cancer. It is the second of two endowed professorships established in 1993 by Charles Arthur Weaver. RUSH University Medical Center President Leo M. Henikoff, MD, with unanimous approval by the Board of Trustees, determined cancer research to be a suitable focus for the Mary Denny Weaver Professorship.

The Steven G. Economou, MD, Professorship of General Surgery

The Steven G. Economou, MD, Professorship of General Surgery was established by the Pritzker Foundation and former Trustee Robert A. Pritzker, a friend and grateful patient of Steven G. Economou, MD. The professorship recognizes Economou’s accomplishments and ensures that excellence in the field of general surgery will continue at RUSH University Medical Center.

The Grainger Directorship of the RUSH Arthritis and Orthopedics Institute

This directorship was established by The Grainger Foundation to provide resources for innovative patient care programs and important research in perpetuity within the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at RUSH. The Grainger Foundation and the Grainger family’s legacy of support for RUSH spans nearly 50 years.

The C. Anderson Hedberg, MD, Professorship of Internal Medicine

Frederick A. Krehbiel and John H. Krehbiel Jr. established this professorship in memory of their father, Life Trustee John Hammond Krehbiel Sr. The professorship is a lasting tribute to C. Anderson Hedberg, MD, friend and primary care physician to the elder Krehbiel. It acknowledges his care and dedication to the clinical practice of medicine and future physicians’ education.

The Brian Piccolo Endowed Professorship of Cancer Research

This professorship was established by the Brian Piccolo Cancer Research Fund, including contributions from its largest supporter, the NFL. It is named in honor of former Chicago Bears running back Brian Piccolo, who passed away from cancer in 1970. This professorship provides financial resources toward finding a cure for breast cancer. Upon future discovery of a cure for breast cancer, funds will be directed to research in other cancers.

The Roger C. Bone, MD, Presidential Professorship of RUSH University

Friends, colleagues and grateful patients of the late Roger C. Bone, MD, established this professorship to honor Bone’s commitment to the practice of medicine, medical education and scientific research. This professorship is awarded at the discretion of the president of RUSH University.

The Floyd A. Davis, MD, Professorship of Neurology

Friends, colleagues and grateful patients of Floyd A. Davis, MD, established this professorship to recognize Davis’ tireless devotion to the fight against multiple sclerosis and provide perpetual funding for innovative research.

The Frank R. Hendrickson, MD, Professorship of Radiation Oncology

Colleagues, friends, former students and patients of Frank R. Hendrickson, MD, established this professorship to honor his long and distinguished career as well as the advances he made in the field of radiation oncology during his time at RUSH University Medical Center.

The Anthony D. Ivankovich, MD, Chair of Anesthesiology Faculty, former students and friends of Anthony D. Ivankovich, MD, established this chair in recognition of his achievements and contributions to RUSH and the field of anesthesiology. This chair provides support for basic and clinical research and educational initiatives.

The John H. and Margaret V. Krehbiel Professorship of Cardiology

Trustee Frederick A. Krehbiel and his brother John H. Krehbiel Jr. established this professorship in memory of their parents, John H. and Margaret V. Krehbiel. It recognizes the Krehbiels’ dedication and service to RUSH and symbolizes the family’s commitment to the prevention and treatment of heart disease.

The Harry J. and Helen W. Williams Professorship of Cancer Research

The Harry and Helen Williams charitable remainder unitrust established this professorship. With great foresight, the Williamses designated the proceeds of the unitrust to help meet RUSH University Medical Center’s greatest needs, as determined by the Board of Trustees. The board chose to use the proceeds to advance cancer care and research.

The A. Watson Armour III and Sarah Armour Presidential Professorship

The Board of Trustees established this professorship in tribute to their late colleague A. Watson Armour III and his wife, Sarah Wood Armour. It recognizes A. Watson Armour III, who, through his estate and the A. Watson Armour III Charitable Lead Trust, provided support for professorships, fellowships, scholarships and research.

The Ronald L. DeWald, MD, Endowed Professorship of Spinal Deformities

The Ronald L. DeWald, MD, Endowed Professorship of Spinal Deformities was established in honor of DeWald with a lead gift from Sofamor Danek Group Inc., a manufacturer of spinal implant materials, which was later acquired by Medtronic. It was the first endowed professorship in the country devoted solely to research in spinal deformities. DeWald’s colleagues, former students and grateful patients also contributed to the professorship.

The Jorge O. Galante, MD, DMSc, Professorship of Orthopedic Surgery

Friends, grateful patients and colleagues of Jorge O. Galante, MD, DMSc, established this professorship to recognize Galante’s extraordinary contributions to the field of orthopedic surgery. The professorship supports orthopedic research, ensuring that future generations continue to receive the most appropriate and advanced treatments for orthopedic conditions.

The Alla V. and Solomon Jesmer Professorship of Aging

This professorship was established with a gift from the estate of Solomon Jesmer as a tribute to his late wife, Alla V. Jesmer, and the care they both received at RUSH’s Johnston R. Bowman Health Center. Solomon Jesmer hoped to advance research in the fields of gerontology and geriatric medicine.

The Nurses Alumni Association Professorship of Health and Aging

The RUSH-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Nurses Alumni Association established this professorship to provide financial support to enable nurses to pursue vital research and develop strategies to keep people healthy as they age. It is the second professorship in the country established by an alumni association for nursing.

The RUSH University Professorship of Orthopedic Oncology

Kemper Educational and Charitable Fund and the Thomas B. Hunter III Family established this professorship to honor Steven Gitelis, MD. The professorship supports research in bone cancer. Grateful patients and friends of Gitelis also contributed to this fund.

The Grace DeForest and William Louis Veeck Endowed Professorship of Cardiovascular Research

The grandchildren of William and Grace Veeck — John Krehbiel Jr.; Frederick A. Krehbiel; Michael Veeck; Marya Veeck; Gregory Veeck, PhD; Lisa Veeck; Juliana Veeck-Brosnan, PhD; Christopher Veeck; Peter Raymond Veeck; Ellen Veeck Maggs; and William Louis Veeck III — established this professorship as a memorial to their grandparents. It demonstrates their commitment to the health of the community.

The Alice Pirie Wirtz Professorship of Medical Oncology

Alice and William Wirtz established this professorship in tribute to their family’s longtime ties to the surrounding community. It encourages an aggressive approach to oncology research and recognizes excellence in cancer treatment and research. In creating this professorship, they honored RUSH physicians, including Philip Bonomi, MD, for conducting innovative research and improving patient therapies.

The Deutsch Family Professorship of Ophthalmology

This professorship was established by the Deutsch family to recognize more than 100 years of the family’s service at RUSH University Medical Center in delivering patient care and providing leadership in education and research. The professorship honors three generations of the Deutsch family serving as RUSH ophthalmologists: Emil Deutsch, MD; William Deutsch, MD; and Thomas Deutsch, MD; and Rebecca Deutsch Sarran, MD. Grateful patients, faculty, former students and residents, employees of the Department of Ophthalmology and former ophthalmology residents also contributed to this fund.

The Deborah R. and Edgar D. Jannotta Presidential Professorship

Deborah R. Jannotta, a member of The Woman’s Board, and Trustee Edgar D. Jannotta established this professorship with the lead gift to How the Future of Medicine Should Be: The Campaign for RUSH University Medical Center. Additional funding was provided by William Blair & Co. LLC to honor Edgar D. Jannotta upon his retirement as the company’s managing partner. The professorship recognizes the Jannottas for their generosity of spirit and exceptional personal philanthropy to RUSH University Medical Center.

The George D. Wilbanks, MD, Professorship of Gynecologic Oncology

This professorship was established with a grant from the Lester B. Knight Charitable Trust and through the generosity of Wilbanks, his patients and colleagues. The professorship provides support for research in ovarian cancer with the hope of finding a cure for this disease.

The Maria Albanese Professorship of Breast Cancer Research

The Maria Albanese Professorship of Breast Cancer Research was established with a gift from the estate of Maria Albanese as an expression of her admiration for Edgar Staren, MD, and Melody Cobleigh, MD, and her gratitude for the care she received from them. Albanese requested the professorship exclusively support activities that advance scientific knowledge in breast cancer research. The appointment of a faculty member to this professorship is at the sole discretion of the president of RUSH University.

The Judd and Marjorie Weinberg Presidential Professorship

The Judd A. and Marjorie Weinberg Family Foundation established this presidential professorship to recognize its inaugural holder, Jules E. Harris, MD, for his outstanding achievements in patient care and medical research. The appointment of a faculty member to this professorship is at the sole discretion of the president of RUSH University. The faculty member may practice in any discipline.

1999

The Robert S. Katz, MD - Joan and Paul Rubschlager Professorship of Osteoarthritis

Longtime RUSH supporters Joan and Paul Rubschlager established this professorship to honor Robert S. Katz, MD, for the superb care he provided. It was the Rubschlagers’ desire that the first use of the professorship is in the area of osteoarthritis.

2000

The Mary Lou Bell McGrew Presidential Professorship of Medical Research

Mary Lou Bell McGrew, a Class of 1934 nursing alumna of St. Luke’s Hospital Training School of Nursing, an antecedent school of today’s RUSH University College of Nursing, established this presidential professorship to advance scientific investigation into improved quality of life. Through her estate, McGrew directed the creation of a perpetual trust to benefit RUSH University Medical Center. Income from this trust is divided equally between medical research and care for the uninsured.

2001

The Lester and Muriel Anixter Professorship of Nephrology

The Board of Trustees established this professorship to recognize the extraordinary philanthropic investment of Muriel and Lester J. Anixter in the health and well-being of patients with kidney disease. The professorship also recognizes the Anixters’ support for RUSH University Medical Center’s physician-scientists, particularly Janis Orlowski, MD.

2002

The Glore Family Professorship of Neonatology

Trustee Robert Hixon Glore and members of the Glore family established this professorship to support and express confidence in and support of Larry J. Goodman, MD, as he assumed the role of chief executive officer and president of RUSH University Medical Center. Four generations of Hixons and Glores have been associated with the medical center and its antecedent institutions.

2004

The Madeleine and James M. McMullan - Carl E. Eybel, MD, Professorship of Excellence in Clinical Cardiology

Grateful patients Madeleine and James M. McMullan established this professorship to honor Carl E. Eybel, MD, for his exemplary skills as a clinician and a teacher of fellows, residents and medical students. James M. McMullan worked at William Blair & Co. for 41 years, and Madeleine McMullan was a professor of German and history at Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. They formed a lasting friendship with Eybel and wished to recognize him with this endowed professorship.

2006

The Michael E. Kelly, MD, Professorship

Life Trustee Robert A. Pritzker established this professorship to honor and recognize the important role a young surgery resident, Michael E. Kelly, MD, played in Pritzker’s care. The professorship supports medical student financial assistance at RUSH University.

2008

The Arthur E. Diggs, MD, and L. Penfield Faber, MD, Chair of Surgical Sciences

The Board of Trustees established this chair to recognize and honor the contributions of Arthur E. Diggs, MD, a 1928 graduate of RUSH Medical College and longtime attending physician at RUSH University Medical Center, and L. Penfield Faber, MD, who was Diggs’ protégé and later his colleague on the hospital staff. The chair supports surgical sciences with a preference for general thoracic surgery and neurosurgery.

The Stuart Levin, MD, Professorship

The Board of Trustees established this professorship to recognize the distinguished career of Stuart Levin, MD, as a clinician and teacher of medical students, residents and fellows, and to pay tribute to his dedication to RUSH and lasting influence on his students’ professional lives. The professorship supports medical student financial assistance at RUSH University.

2010

The Carole B. and Gordon I. Segal Professorship of Women’s Cancer Issues

Longtime supporters Carole B. and Gordon I. Segal established this professorship to support and accelerate research into a spectrum of common cancers that affect women. Carole B. Segal, a trustee and former chairman of the Board of Governors, is a longtime advocate for women’s cancer issues.

The A. Watson Armour III Presidential Professorship

This professorship was established by the Board of Trustees in September 2011 to recognize an exceptional estate gift from the late A. Watson Armour III. This is the third endowed professorship at RUSH that bears the Armour name.

The Robert C. and Naomi T. Borwell Presidential Professorship

This presidential professorship was established by the RUSH University Medical Center Board of Trustees to recognize the extraordinary contributions of Robert and Naomi Borwell during their lifetimes and through their estate. Robert Borwell was elected a trustee of RUSH University Medical Center in 1954 and served until his death in 1989. Naomi Borwell was an active member of The Woman’s Board for many years and a member of the Leadership Committee for the RUSH Neuroscience Institute.

The John L. and Helen Kellogg Professorship of the College of Nursing

The Board of Trustees established this as the fourth endowed professorship for the RUSH University College of Nursing. A magnificent gift from the John L. and Helen Kellogg Foundation in 1978 established the initial endowment for the dean of the college. It also created the John L. and Helen Kellogg National Center for Excellence in Nursing while naming the Kellogg Pavilion. The newest Kellogg professorship was made possible by the substantial growth of the endowment’s principal and will ensure the college can continue recruiting and retaining outstanding faculty.

The Aaron G. Rosenberg, MD, Professorship of Orthopaedic Surgery

Craig Silverton, DO, a past fellow of Aaron G. Rosenberg, MD, provided initial support for this professorship. He garnered additional contributions from Rosenberg’s colleagues, fellows, students and friends to establish the professorship. Rosenberg has been in practice at RUSH since 1984, specializing in hip and knee reconstruction and replacement. He has trained hundreds of medical students and fellows and conducted research in implant performance, mechanics and design, all with the goal of improving the lives of patients in need of joint replacement.

2017

The Sheba Foundation Endowed Directorship for the RUSH Cancer Center

This directorship was established by the Sheba Foundation to support RUSH’s vision to transform the program into Chicago’s destination for cancer care and treatment. The Sheba Foundation Endowed Directorship for the RUSH Cancer Center is to be held by the director of the center and supports patient care, research and educational needs. RUSH University Cancer Center will become a national leader in cancer diagnosis, treatment and prevention under the director’s leadership.

The Robert E. and Emily H. King Professorship of Cancer Research

Grateful patients Robert and Emily King established this professorship to support research efforts in cancer immunotherapy and related areas. Robert King spent his career building businesses focused on applying technology to enhance education. With Emily King’s experience in the nonprofit sector, the Kings merged their shared passion, vision and focus for creating initiatives to help improve education.

2019

The Michelle and Larry Goodman, MD, Professorship of Health Equity

In tribute to the legacy of Michelle and Larry Goodman, MD, at RUSH and their long-standing dedication to health equity, the RUSH University Medical Center Board of Trustees established this professorship to improve the health and well-being of individuals in the diverse communities RUSH serves. Larry Goodman, who served in a dual role as chief executive officer of RUSH University Medical Center and president of RUSH University from 2002 to 2019, is the James A. Campbell, MD, Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus and serves as a life trustee.

The James R. Lowenstine Professorship

The James R. Lowenstine Professorship was established by the late James Lowenstine through the Conserve Trust. This is the second professorship funded by Lowenstine, furthering his legacy of philanthropic support for RUSH, which has positively impacted the organization for many years through the James Lowenstine Professorship of Internal Medicine established in 1971 as RUSH’s 15th endowed faculty position.

The John L. Showel, MD, Professorship of Hematology and Oncology

Grateful patients Vicky C. and David B. Smith established this professorship to recognize John L. Showel, MD, for his expertise in the fields of hematology and oncology and his dedication to patient care. Showel is a distinguished and well-respected cancer specialist at RUSH with more than 50 years of experience as a physician.

The Carole A. and Leo M. Henikoff, MD, Presidential Professorship

This professorship was established with contributions from Carole and Leo Henikoff, MD, and Robert Judelson to help recruit and retain accomplished researchers, clinicians or members of faculty. Leo Henikoff was professor of medicine and pediatrics, chairman of the Board of Directors of RUSH

Prudential Health Plans, chief executive officer of RUSH-PresbyterianSt. Luke’s Medical Center and president of RUSH University until his retirement in 2002. He is president emeritus of RUSH University and also serves as a life trustee.

The John and Alice Sabl Professorship in Alzheimer’s Disease and Neurological Sciences Research

John and Alice Sabl were inspired to establish this professorship by the innovative work of the RUSH Alzheimer’s Disease Center, especially that of Director David A. Bennett, MD, for his expertise in the field of neurology and dedication to advancing Alzheimer’s disease research. This professorship supports further research in Alzheimer’s disease and neurological sciences, ensuring that high-caliber neuroscience research continues in perpetuity at RUSH. John Sabl serves as a trustee.

The Harrison I. Steans Directorship of the RUSH BMO Institute for Health Equity

Trustee Jennifer W. Steans and her husband, James Kastenholz, along with the Steans, Morrison and Hunter families, established this directorship for the leader of the RUSH BMO Institute for Health Equity — an academic institute serving RUSH and RUSH University. The Steans Directorship honors the legacy of Harrison I. Steans and his commitment to promoting stronger education, employment, health and safety for residents of Chicago’s West Side, particularly the North Lawndale community.

The James A. Campbell, MD, Presidential Chair

The James A. Campbell, MD, Presidential Chair is the second chair established in honor of James A. Campbell, MD, and in keeping with the original desire to recognize his significant contributions to RUSH. In 2023, recognizing the significant financial growth of the James A. Campbell, MD, Distinguished Service Chair, the Chauncey & Marion D. McCormick Family Foundation — the lead donor to the original fund — supported the establishment of this second endowed faculty position to further support the recruitment and retention of leading faculty members and academic leaders to RUSH.