93-Year-Old Widow Donates $1 Billion to Make Med School Free and Refuses to Put Her Name on It
93-year-old Ruth Gottesman donates $1 billion to make med school tuition-free forever, rewriting the rules of education and philanthropy.
Ruth Gottesman, aged 93, has made history with her monumental $1 billion donation to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, ensuring that all students can attend tuition-free forever. This unprecedented act not only unlocks opportunities for aspiring doctors but sets a remarkable precedent in philanthropy and education.
Following the passing of her late husband, billionaire investor David “Sandy” Gottesman, Ruth was astonished to discover her inheritance. His parting advice, “Do what you think is right,” inspired her to direct the entire sum toward education—a sector she’s passionately supported since 1968 when she began her career as a professor at Einstein.
This is the largest donation in U.S. medical school history, with free tuition available starting in August 2024. For generations, students from underserved communities will no longer have to face the daunting burden of student debt, which can exceed $200,000 for a medical degree. NPR highlighted that her donation ensures financial accessibility for all, allowing future medical professionals to focus on their education without financial distractions.
Ruth’s decision is already sending ripples through the education system, demonstrating how philanthropy can effectively address inequalities. Current medical students have reacted with joy and disbelief, expressing tears and cheers at the news. As
Ruth noted, “This isn’t just a donation; it’s a legacy of compassion. It’s about giving every student a chance to be a healer without the shackles of debt.”
Moreover, the funds are structured as an endowment, guaranteeing free tuition for all future students for generations to come. This thoughtful setup fuels Ruth’s aim to create lasting change in the medical field and beyond. According to Axios, this donation sets a standard and challenges other wealthy individuals to consider the impact of their legacies.
Investors and philanthropists are called to reflect on their contributions. Ruth Gottesman’s act is a profound reminder that wealth can and should be used to foster educational equity. As this narrative unfolds, it will inspire many more to follow suit in balancing personal wealth with societal needs.
People will undoubtedly look back at this moment as pivotal in the fight for equitable education. The world will be watching who steps up next: the question is, who will rise to the occasion?
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
93-year-old Ruth Gottesman donated $1 billion to Albert Einstein College of Medicine, making tuition free for all students forever. This historic act reshapes medical education and philanthropy.
