Evelyn G. Lipper, M.D.
RECIPIENT OF THE HONORARY DEGREE
Evelyn Gruss Lipper brings a scientist’s observational acumen and a clinician’s emphasis on wellbeing to her philanthropic endeavors, with transformative results. Through a distinguished clinical career in developmental and behavioral pediatrics, and a second career in visionary philanthropy, Dr. Lipper has advanced the work of medical, scientific, and humanitarian organizations across the globe.
After discovering a love of biology in high school, she pursued a B.S. from Simmons College before earning her M.D. from Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1971. Six years later, Dr. Lipper took a position in pediatrics at Albert Einstein College and in 1982 moved to Weill Cornell Medicine, where she was Director of the Neonatal Follow up Program. In 1990, she became Chief of the Division of Developmental Pediatrics at Weill Cornell and currently serves as Clinical Associate Professor Emerita of Pediatrics at Weill Cornell.
Dr. Lipper’s relationship with The Rockefeller University extends over four decades, a depth of commitment that places her among the university’s most notable and passionate advocates. She has provided critical leadership through some of Rockefeller’s most transformative years. After joining the Rockefeller University Council in 1983, she was elected to the Board of Trustees in 1992—serving on the Nominating, Development, Hospital, and Educational Affairs Committees. Also of note is Dr. Lipper’s pioneering support of the Women & Science initiative. She was elected Trustee Emerita in 2021.
Her background as an esteemed faculty member at renowned institutions provided Dr. Lipper with unique insight as a philanthropist. Inspired by her parents’ charitable endeavors, she became involved with her family’s foundations but also forged her own path according to her interests. She has dedicated her efforts to supporting medical, scientific, and humanitarian organizations in New York City, the United States, and Israel.
With a special interest in imaging, Dr. Lipper has made transformational contributions that have spurred the innovative use of advanced equipment, both at Rockefeller and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Dr. Lipper is a trustee of her family foundations: the Gruss Life Monument Funds, the EGL Charitable Foundation, and the Beracha Foundation. She has served on the boards of some of the country’s most distinguished institutions and is an honorary trustee at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.