Rheumatology Research Foundation honors new class of honorary board of advisors
On Saturday evening, nearly 150 of the Rheumatology Research Foundation’s largest supporters gathered at the St. Regis Washington, DC, for the Donors of Merit recognition dinner. This annual event honors those who contributed to the Foundation throughout the year.
Foundation President Eric Matteson, MD, MPH, applauded leaders who have played an essential role in the Foundation’s success. Members of the Corporate Roundtable, the Founders Circle, and the Legacy Society were among those acknowledged for their extraordinary dedication. “Their determination and hard work has resulted in a significant increase in private support for rheumatology research and education initiatives.”
The event culminated with the induction of a new class of Honorary Board of Advisors, which is reserved for individuals who made an indelible mark on the Foundation’s future fundraising success. “The Honorary Board of Advisors honors those who have truly made a transformative impact in growing a culture of philanthropy at the Foundation,” said Paula Reed, the Foundation’s vice president of development.
The 2016 inductees include Stanley B. Cohen, MD, who inspired the formation of the Foundation’s Corporate Roundtable and patient giving program; Tobé Malawista and the late Stephen E. Malawista, MD, who were the first to establish an endowment to provide a permanent source of support in basic science research career development; and Arthur L. Weaver, MD, who helped formalize the Legacy Society for those who want to include the Foundation in their estate plans.