Steven Mandel, MD ’75
Why am I supporter of Albert Einstein College of Medicine?
It is a mixture of the mission, my impact, and my identity.
Do I look at my support as an obligation and/or responsibility to support the institution and specific programs that was the foundation for my life's work as a physician?
My generosity and commitment to Einstein, helps create pathways for long term success. By building a sustainable future, I tell the school that I am here for it. Small acts of kindness can inspire others to get involved. My support helps ensure continuity that has a lasting impact. I am a part of a network of shared purpose, where I can share in its success. I gain as much as I give, because Einstein is a special place.
I share and believe in the actions of Einstein, the value of knowledge and discipline, belief in helping others, contributing beyond myself that will have lasting relevance over time. I feel good about contributing to something meaningful beyond myself, and it helps define who I am.
I want to give back, because of what I received. It has strengthened sense of self, and I am left with gratitude. I take pride in knowing that I have mattered in someone's journey. I feel energized and tied to my values with a sense of fulfillment. There is an emotional reciprocity in being a supporter.
By supporting the organization, I am also advocating for the success of the infrastructure I have invested in. It helps preserve the College of Medicine’s capacity for its long-term research agenda, and a scholarly pipeline that shapes the future. It helps the organization respond quickly to changing needs, mobilize resources effectively, and maintain momentum toward its goals.
My support is rooted in gratitude. Einstein's mentors, patients, colleagues, and experiences helped shape who I am—as a physician, a professional, and a person. Supporting Einstein is not simply an act of charity; it is an expression of that gratitude, as well as my commitment, stewardship, and belief in the future of the institution and the people it serves. It is my way of giving back to a community that invested in me and of advancing a mission of healing, discovery, compassion, and service to humanity.
When I returned to Montefiore Einstein for my neurology residency, I met my wife, Heidi, who was the senior supervisor at Einstein hospital in neurology. We built a family and life together, now spanning 47 wonderful years of marriage. These experiences have made my commitment to supporting Einstein and its future deeply personal and enduring.
Einstein played a defining role in my life, shaping me as a physician, introducing me to lifelong mentors and friends, and even leading me to my wife. Supporting Einstein is my way of giving back and helping ensure that future generations — especially those that might not otherwise have access to the medical education or the same transformative opportunities. I know many of my fellow alumni feel the same sense of gratitude and loyalty. Through our support, we remain part of Einstein's story, helping to sustain the mission and values that have meant so much to us.
