New Professorship Named for Hillary Rodham Clinton
The growing commitment to improving health care for women is inspiring contributors to endow multiple new professorships at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.
The most recent donation will fund the Hillary Rodham Clinton Professorship in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
“We are delighted to be able to name this professorship for someone who has been a global champion for quality health care for women,” says Lee Goldman, MD, Harold and Margaret Hatch Professor of the University and dean of the Faculties of Health Sciences and Medicine.
The Clinton professorship is the fourth endowed chair added to the Department in the past three years and the 16th new endowed chair in the College of Physicians and Surgeons since 2012.
Lynn L. Simpson, MD, chief of the Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine and professor of obstetrics and gynecology, will be the inaugural incumbent. Dr. Simpson is an international expert in maternal medicine, prenatal pediatrics, and high-risk deliveries.
“Lynn is an extremely talented and compassionate clinician who specializes in managing complex pregnancies,” said Mary E. D’Alton, MD, chair of the Department of Ob/Gyn. “Dr. Simpson has been a key member of the Department for 14 years and will set a high standard for the Hillary Rodham Clinton Professorship.”
Richard U. Levine, MD, vice chair for development in Ob/Gyn, is leading the efforts to secure new support for the department. This professorship is the most recent result of his work, according to Dr. D’Alton.
“Leadership and stability provided by an endowed chair is indispensable, and underwrites treatment and care for women for decades,” said Dr. D’Alton. “This is a significant step forward and affirmation of Columbia’s commitment to the highest level of care for our patients and their families.”
Dr. D’Alton underscores the importance of endowed funds to recruit and retain the best faculty in the field. “A professorship provides a crucial foundation for the future of the Department,” she said. “Our donor’s generosity and support will elevate the quality of care available to all women,” says Dr. Levine.
The establishment of the Clinton Professorship and the faculty appointment of Dr. Simpson were made by the Columbia University Board of Trustees. The chair was endowed by an anonymous donor.