Events

The summit aims to provide a comprehensive platform for healthcare professionals, researchers, and specialists to discuss recent developments in the field of advanced lung disease, including state-of-the-art therapies for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the latest diagnostic and treatment approaches to interstitial lung disease (ILD), novel treatments for cystic fibrosis (CF) and non-CF bronchiectasis, lung cancer, asthma, and multi-modality management of pulmonary hypertension (PH). We will highlight the importance of multi-disciplinary care of these complex patients with medical co-morbidities, including advanced therapies for lung disease (ECMO, LVRS, BLVR, atrial septostomy, Potts shunt) and the key therapeutic role of lung transplantation. By highlighting the latest research and technological advancements, the program seeks to enhance understanding and collaboration within the medical community. We will employ interactive presentations, including case discussions and a mock multi-disciplinary team meeting, with audience participation through audience response elements embedded into the lectures. 

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were identified as a key global health priority during the 78th World Health Assembly. Mobilizing Ministries of Health, NGOs, and other non-state actors to drive this agenda forward is essential-but cannot be achieved without access to comprehensive, multidisciplinary care that includes primary prevention, treatment, nutrition, and mental health services. CDs disproportionately affect children and adolescents, and ensuring access to multidisciplinary care is essential not only for survival but also for long-term health and well-being. This roundtable will examine the unique challenges and promising solutions in both high-and low-income settings, and put forth actionable recommendations for the global community to collectively advance.

The Office of Research Initiatives and Development is pleased to continue, Funding Forward: Strategies for Securing Research Funding—a webinar series designed to enable faculty and researchers with practical tools to strengthen their funding efforts. This series features sessions on engaging with foundations, industry partners, and government agencies, along with strategies for using funding tools and internal resources. We invite you to join us for our upcoming session: Funding Forward: A Conversation with Health Sciences Foundation Leaders and Grant Makers Date: Friday, September 26, 2025 Time: 12:30–1:30 PM Place: Virtual (Zoom – link provided upon registration) Register Here This session will spotlight how foundations in the health sciences are approaching grantmaking in today’s challenging climate and provide insights into the opportunities and expectations shaping this funding landscape. The conversation will explore strategies for building successful approaches and help researchers strengthen their engagement with health-focused foundations. Panelists Sindy Escobar-Alvarez, PhD – Program Director, Medical Research Program, Doris Duke Foundation Irfan Hasan – Vice President, Programs and Grants, New York Community Trust Victoria McGovern, PhD – Senior Program Officer, Burroughs Wellcome Fund Moderator Takeisha Hall-Ruff – Senior Executive Director of Development, Corporate and Foundation Relations, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center Panel Hosts Dimitra Koutsantoni, PhD – Executive Director of University Corporate and Foundation Relations, Office of Alumni and Development Venessa Manzano – Senior Director of Development, Corporate and Foundation Relations, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center While the discussion will focus on health care and medical research, all members of the Columbia community with an interest in foundation funding are welcome to attend. This session is co-hosted with Columbia’s Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Advancement. 

Location: The Ambassador of Scarsdale, 9 Saxon Wood Road, White Plains, NY 10605 Please join us on Friday, October 17 at the Ambassador of Scarsdale at 10am for an educational forum, Spotlight on Breast Health. Our guests, medical staff from Columbia University Irving Medical Center, will present the latest information on diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, including breast reconstruction. Light refreshments will be served. Open to: community members who want to learn more about breast health, community professionals, providers, and caregivers who care for seniors. This series is sponsored by Columbia University Irving Medical Center, the Northwest and Central Regions of Livable Communities, SUNY Westchester Community College, and Westchester Jewish Community Services. Register Now