Wilson Society Member Spotlight
Wilson Society Member Spotlight
Dr. Mimi Tutihasi Ĵý77M (MD)
Dr. Mimi Tutihasi Ĵý77M (MD) always knew she wanted to go into pediatrics. ĴýI could never really envision myself doing anything else,Ĵý she says. She knew she was on the right path after meeting a special faculty member at the School of Medicine and Dentistry more than 45 years ago.
ĴýMy best friend in school Barbara Schuster Ĵý77M (MD) suggested we get involved with the Rochester Adolescent Maternity Project in the pediatric medicine department,Ĵý Tutihasi says. There the two students found a lifelong supporter in program director Elizabeth McAnarney, MD, Distinguished University Professor and Chair Emerita of the Department of Pediatrics at URMC.
ĴýShe just took both of us under her wing,Ĵý Tutihasi says, ĴýShe kept tabs on us, and on our careers.Ĵý Tutihasi recalls spending time with Dr. McAnarney and a handful of students outside of school and says that social support made a difference: ĴýShe helped me feel confident as a medical student and in pursuing my career.Ĵý
After returning for her 40th Reunion, Tutihasi began to think about honoring this relationship and her appreciation for her medical education by making provisions in her estate plan. She began working with Ĵý staff, who in turn spoke to Dr. McAnarney about priorities and needs. Ultimately, Tutihasi documented a bequest, directing a percentage of her estate to the Department of Pediatrics at URMC. The document was carefully worded to ensure the gift would have the impact she intended.
ĴýI really wanted my gift to impact the academic side of pediatrics. I hope it supports someone else interested in primary care down the road,Ĵý shares Tutihasi.
As it turns out, her generous gift will support generations of future primary care physicians, since the agreement creates a permanent endowed fund to be used at the discretion of the department.
Dr. McAnarney conveys her pride in her former studentĴýs accomplishments and also expresses her thanks on behalf of the School of Medicine and Dentistry. ĴýDr. Tutihasi provides outstanding primary pediatric care,Ĵý she says. ĴýHer life-time dedication to her practice and the contributions she is making to childrenĴýs health are remarkable.
ĴýEducation has always been Dr. TutihasiĴýs passion. She is an avid educator of children and their families, and now she is extending that passion to the education of future primary care providers trained at her alma mater, URSMD. We are deeply grateful for her foresight and leadership.Ĵý