Rheumatology Research Foundation Recognizes Donors of Merit

Honorary Board of Advisor inductees from left: Dr. Cohen, Mrs. Malawista and Dr. Weaver. They were honored for their leadership and extraordinary support for rheumatology research and training.

On Nov. 12, nearly 150 supporters of the Rheumatology Research Foundation gathered at the St. Regis Washington, D.C., 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 commitment and dedication have 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, 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 Dr. Matteson.

The 2016 inductees were Stanley B. Cohen, MD; Tobé Malawista and the late Stephen E. Malawista, MD; and Arthur L. Weaver, MD.

Dr. Cohen was recognized for his role in the formation of the Industry Roundtable. The program, now known as the Corporate Roundtable, has stimulated unprecedented support to fund promising physician–scientists and accelerate the Foundation’s Innovative Research Program. A former president of the ACR and the Foundation, Dr. Cohen was instrumental in launching the Foundation’s patient-giving program.

Dr. and Mrs. Malawista were selected to join the honorary board in appreciation of their generous gift that established the Tobé and Stephen E. Malawista, MD, Endowment in Academic Rheumatology. Established in 2014, the endowment ensures that physician–scientists can continue their academic careers in rheumatic disease research. Mrs. Malawista attended the event and accepted the award on behalf of herself and her late husband.

Dr. Weaver played a significant role in developing the Foundation’s Legacy Society, which recognizes donors who have included the Foundation in their estate plans through bequests or life-income gifts. In addition to serving as the Foundation’s first president and first chair of the Planned Giving Campaign, Dr. Weaver and his wife Joanne set a leadership example by becoming the first members of the Legacy Society.

As members of this non-governing board of advisors, they represent the Foundation and will be asked to provide strategic council on resource development. For more information, visit www.rheumresearch.org/leadership.