John Romano Society

The John Romano Society is named in memory of John Romano, M.D., founding chair and professor of psychiatry, whose influence as a charismatic educator and physician permeated the school and hospital for nearly 50 years, from 1946 until his death in June 1994. He is regarded as a founding father of modern American psychiatry and recognized worldwide as a reformer of medical education.

Dr. Romano's caring nature and keen interest in people were evident throughout his career. His unwavering will to improve the lives of patients, students, peers, family, and friends was remarkable, even in the last days of his life. Dr. Romano championed the idea that dialogue between the patient and physician is an integral part of the healing process, which stands as a cornerstone of today's biopsychosocial model of teaching and patient care at the School of Medicine and Dentistry and at Strong Memorial Hospital, and is a hallmark of the Rochester trained physician.

It is this commitment to the future of medical education, research and patient care at the University of Rochester that is the founding principle of the John Romano Society.

For more than 75 years the School of Medicine and Dentistry has benefited from the generosity of committed alumni and friends who have included the School of Medicine and Dentistry in their estate or financial plans. Such special gifts have helped provide scholarships for talented medical students, fellowships for deserving graduate students, professorships and vital support for the research and teaching endeavors of our outstanding faculty. Bequests and other planned gifts have also helped to purchase new equipment and enhance and preserve our existing facilities. The additional financial benefits associated with many planned gifts make it possible for donors to support the work of the School to an even greater extent than they thought possible. In a way, they provide a legacy to endow their annual support. The continuation and expansion of this tradition of remembrance ensures a healthy future for the School.

Through the John Romano Society, the School of Medicine and Dentistry gratefully recognizes the foresight and generosity of alumni, faculty and friends who have included the School or Strong Memorial Hospital in their estate plans. Gifts may be in the form of a provision in a will or living trust, as a beneficiary of life insurance or retirement plan, real estate with life tenancy, charitable trust, or through participation in the University of Rochester's Pooled Income Fund or Gift Annuity programs. To learn more about including the School or Hospital in your estate plans, or to add your name to the John Romano Society, please contact the Advancement Office at (800) 333-4428 or by e-mail.

To learn more about estate planning please email Christopher Raimy or call (585) 275-9916 / (800) 635-4672 or visit the website of the Office of Trusts and Estates.