Reminisced University Trustee David M. Flaum as a 'fervent advocate' for the University and community

Reminisced University Trustee David M. Flaum as a 'fervent advocate' for the University and community

David M. Flaum: A Visionary Philanthropist for The University of Rochester

David M. Flaum, a renowned philanthropist, entrepreneur, and community advocate, passed away on August 20 at the age of 67. His contributions to The University of Rochester, particularly through his association with the Flaum Eye Institute, have been instrumental in supporting research, education, and clinical care at the medical center.

The Flaum Eye Institute, the region's only eye institute, is a leader in specialty eye care. It conducts clinical trials and pioneers new diagnostics and treatments, making significant strides in ophthalmology. This institute, named in his honor, is a testament to Flaum's philanthropy and his dedication to advancing vision science and patient treatment.

Flaum's philanthropy and naming of the institute reflect his significant financial support that has enabled advancements in ophthalmology research and patient care at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). The Flaum Eye Institute is part of a broader collaborative research environment that includes the Del Monte Neuroscience Institute, contributing to studies on visual cortex organization and biological visual restoration using advanced technologies and methodologies.

Under Flaum's support, the institute has been involved in cutting-edge neuroscience and ophthalmology research, often in collaboration with the Del Monte Institute for Neuroscience at the University of Rochester. This scientific synergy fosters innovation that benefits both clinical applications and basic science understanding.

The resources and support from benefactors like Flaum have helped the institute maintain high standards in clinical care for eye diseases, facilitating advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques. This support contributes to improved patient outcomes in ophthalmology at URMC.

David Flaum served as chairman, founder, and CEO of Flaum Management Company, Inc. of Rochester. He was also a member of Syracuse's Board of Trustees, where the David & Ilene Grand Hall at the Whitman School is named after him and his wife. In addition to his support for the Flaum Eye Institute, the Flaums provided generous support to many other areas of the University, including Golisano Children's Hospital, Wilmot Cancer Institute, FF Thompson Hospital, and others.

Flaum was a board member of the University of Rochester Medical Center since 1998 and joined the University of Rochester Board of Trustees in 2007. His devotion to the institute, as noted by David A. DiLoreto, Jr, MD, PhD, director of the Flaum Eye Institute and chair of ophthalmology, allowed many to build their careers, perform groundbreaking vision research, and preserve and save the sight of thousands.

Mark B. Taubman, MD, CEO of the medical center and dean of the School of Medicine and Dentistry, also noted Flaum's support for the institute. University flags will be lowered on September 10 to honor his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his memory to the Flaum Eye Institute and the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, where Flaum served as a board member.

Flaum's legacy at the University of Rochester is evident through his philanthropy and the sustained impact of the institute that bears his name on the medical center’s research and clinical missions. His contributions will continue to shape the future of vision science and patient care at the University of Rochester.

1. David M. Flaum's contributions to The University of Rochester extended beyond the Flaum Eye Institute, impacting various medical conditions and chronic diseases such as COPD, type-2 diabetes, cancer, and multiple sclerosis.
2. In the realm of workplace-wellness, Flaum's support for the medical center also benefited the health and wellness of its employees, fostering a more productive and healthier work environment.
3. The golden years of aging come with their own set of health challenges, and Flaum's philanthropy played a significant role in addressing these issues, particularly in the area of cardiovascular health.
4. The Flaum Eye Institute, a leader in digital and eye health, has been at the forefront of therapies and treatments for sleep disorders, ensuring patients receive the care they need to maintain quality sleep.
5. The institute's commitment to health and wellness extends beyond vision care; it also supports research on hearing, fitness and exercise, and sexual health.
6. Flaum's support for the Flaum Eye Institute has had a ripple effect on family health, ensuring the wellbeing of future generations through their work on breast cancer, neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, and autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.
7. In the face of climate change, the university's environmental science department, with the support of benefactors like Flaum, is working tirelessly to find solutions through renewable energy research.
8. As a passionate advocate for mental health, Flaum's philanthropy has also supported research and treatment for conditions like migraines and stress-related disorders.
9. Realizing the importance of enhancing men's health, the funds contributed by Flaum have been instrumental in studies and treatments related to men's health issues such as prostate cancer and skin care.
10. The Flaum Eye Institute, in a broader collaborative research environment, contributes to studies on visual cortex organization, which can have implications for research in brain disorders like Parkinson's disease.
11. The institute also works closely with the Wilmot Cancer Institute, furthering advancements in cancer research and treatment.
12. Furthermore, the Flaum Eye Institute's research into respiratory conditions could lead to significant breakthroughs in managing chronic lung diseases like COPD and asthma.
13. The institute's research on digestive health and its impact on chronic-kidney-disease could provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of this increasingly common condition.
14. Flaum's philanthropy has not only supported the research and clinical aspects of the University of Rochester but has also positively impacted the educational experiences of students in various fields such as finance, education and self-development, and online education.
15. The Flaum Eye Institute's collaboration with Gillette Children's Hospital ensures the wellbeing and health of the younger generation, supporting research on children's health issues like genetic mutations responsible for rare skin conditions.
16. Flaum's generosity has also extended to the Wilmot Cancer Institute and FF Thompson Hospital, helping them to strengthen their focus on weight management, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care.
17. The institute's research on eye health has also shed light on the link between vision impairment and disorders like psoriasis, opening doors for new treatments and therapies.
18. Looking ahead, the Flaum Eye Institute, with its continued efforts in clinical trials and research, will continue to shape the future of healthcare, contributing to breakthroughs in therapies and treatments for various medical conditions.
19. The institute's work in advancing vision science and treatment has the potential to improve quality of life for millions suffering from eye diseases, as well as those dealing with related conditions like migraines and mental health challenges.
20. Flaum's legacy will not only be remembered through the Flaum Eye Institute, but also in the many lives touched by its research, education, and clinical care initiatives.
21. Flaum's contributions to the University of Rochester go beyond just the funding—his dedication, vision, and passion for health and wellness have left an indelible mark on the institute and its mission.
22. Flaum's commitment to science, medicine, and education was unwavering, and his philanthropy has paved the way for countless researchers, clinicians, and students to make meaningful advancements in various medical fields.
23. Flaum's generous support for the medical center also extended to the development of the industry, promoting collaboration and innovation in healthcare, renewable energy, and other sectors.
24. Through his dedication to medical-conditions research and workplace-wellness initiatives, Flaum played a crucial role in fostering a culture of health and wellness in the Rochester community.
25. Flaum's impact on the University of Rochester's mission was felt across its various schools and departments, from energy research at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences to environmental science studies at the College of Arts, Sciences, and Engineering.
26. Flaum's support for various areas of the university, including the Flaum Eye Institute, Wilmot Cancer Institute, and Golisano Children's Hospital, demonstrates his commitment to improving lives and addressing some of the most pressing health issues of our time.
27. Flaum's legacy will continue to inspire and motivate the University of Rochester community, encouraging future generations to follow in his footsteps, working tirelessly to improve the lives of countless individuals through research, education, and clinical care.

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