The North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System has announced a $15 million grant from the Thomas and Jeanne Elmezzi Private Foundation in Great Neck, New York, to endow the newly named Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine.

The endowment will support graduate medical students and advances in molecular science. The Ph.D. program will provide free, individualized training for select students who desire a career in medical research. Thomas Elmezzi, who held executive positions at the Pepsi Cola Companies for thirty years, reformulated the popular soft drink, created Diet Pepsi, and, as executive vice president, expanded the company's operations worldwide. The couple passed away in their nineties within days of each other in October 2005.

"The foundation supports cutting-edge medical research and services that improve the quality of life of people suffering from various medical conditions," said Jose Rivero, chairman of the Elmezzi Private Foundation. "Much of the foundation's support for medical programs has gone to North Shore University Hospital due to Mr. Elmezzi's long-term relationship with the institution."