The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Medicine) has announced a gift of more than $1 million from Harris Philanthropies, alumnus Josh Harris (W’86), and his wife, Marjorie, in support of efforts to recruit diverse applicants to Penn’s pathway and fellowship programs in both clinical medicine and biomedical research.

The gift will enable Penn Medicine to expand student recruitment at its Division of Infectious Diseases, Postdoctoral Opportunities in Research and Teaching (“PennPORT”) program and Post-baccalaureate Research Education Program (“PennPREP”). The Harris Infectious Diseases Fellowship, established in honor of Neil O. Fishman, chief medical officer of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, will help the division recruit applicants from diverse backgrounds, those interested in health disparities research, or those pursuing careers focusing on the care of underserved populations.

“We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with Penn Medicine, an institution that is not only at the forefront of breakthrough innovation within health care, but closely aligns with our mission and values at Harris Philanthropies—finding community-based solutions and creating equitable opportunities for historically underserved communities,” said Josh Harris. 

“The Perelman School of Medicine is dedicated to ensuring that its graduates in all disciplines reflect the diversity of the communities they serve,” said J. Larry Jameson, executive vice president of the University of Pennsylvania for the health system and dean of the Perelman School of Medicine. “The additional positions created by the Harrises’ generous gift will not only allow our programs to help meet that goal, but also expand scientific education into the Philadelphia community and inspire more young students to pursue health-related careers.” 

(Photo credit: Philadelphia 76ers)