Einstein Overseer and Past President, Women's Division

The Einstein community is deeply saddened by the passing of Rita Rosen, on March 8, 2014. Mrs. Rosen was a distinguished member of the Board of Overseers and one of the College of Medicine's most devoted supporters. Together with her late husband, Philip Rosen, who died less than two months ago, on January 19, Mrs. Rosen was an Einstein Benefactor and a passionate advocate for the College of Medicine for more than 50 years. She was 88 years old.

Rita RosenRita Rosen was a longtime member of Einstein's Women's Division and one of its most ardent supporters. She was a dynamic and inspirational leader. Over the years, she served as the division's president and as an executive vice president, and on its New York chapter board's executive committee. In 2004, the division honored her with its highest accolade, the Lizette H. Sarnoff Award for Volunteer Service.

A trained actress and award-winning film producer, Mrs. Rosen contributed her time and creativity to making nearly 20 films for Einstein to tell the College of Medicine's story, highlight the importance of medical research and inspire others to become involved. Her documentary about Einstein's Children's Evaluation and Rehabilitation Center received a prestigious Clarion award from the Association for Women in Communications.

She joined Einstein's Board of Overseers in 1984. "Rita loved Einstein and was a vibrant, creative and active member of the Board," noted Dr. Ruth L. Gottesman, chair of the Board of Overseers. "Even in recent years, she rarely missed a meeting. She was also an enthusiastic participant in our annual Mini Med School Board retreat, relishing the opportunity to interact with our students and faculty and learn about different research and education programs at Einstein. Her elegant, intelligent and spirited presence will be sorely missed."

Philanthropist with a Special Cause

Philip and Rita RosenRita Rosen shared her husband's deep conviction about the importance of "giving back" and social responsibility. She remarked that of all the causes they embraced, Einstein was the closest to their hearts.

Mrs. Rosen was a great raconteur. She enjoyed telling the story of how, in the early 1950s, she and Mr. Rosen attended one of the first fundraising dinners for the new medical school named in honor of Albert Einstein. The dinner was hosted by the legendary Hollywood producer Dore Schary. The Rosens were both inspired when Mr. Schary read Dr. Einstein's credo that "we are here for the sake of others, upon whose smiles and well-being our own happiness depends."

A Lasting Legacy

The College of Medicine recognized the Rosens' extraordinary service with its Humanitarian and Lifetime Achievement awards, and Yeshiva University awarded them honorary doctorates. The remarkable couple were tireless champions of Einstein and its mission to improve human health and used their many talents to help the College of Medicine grow and flourish. Einstein's department of communications and public affairs is named in their honor.

"Rita and Philip exemplified the very words of Albert Einstein's that inspired their steadfast commitment to this remarkable institution," said Allen M. Spiegel, M.D., the Marilyn and Stanley M. Katz Dean. "Their exceptional devotion to Einstein and its mission will have an enduring impact on the College of Medicine."