Gala 2025

New York Academy of Medicine hosted its 30th annual gala on Tuesday, October 21, 2025. Nearly 250 people in attendance gathered in the organization’s historic library to honor three healthcare champions and to unite behind one unified purpose: healthier, longer lives for all. 

The gala was hosted by Kristine Johnson, an Emmy-award winning CBS News New York anchor and TV news journalist. Ann Kurth, PhD, CNM, MPH, New York Academy of Medicine president, spoke passionately about the nonprofit’s mission to create healthier, longer lives for all. Wayne J. Riley, MD, MPH, MBA, MACP, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University president and chair of the Board of Trustees at New York Academy of Medicine, provided a pre-recorded video expressing gratitude for all in attendance. 

Three awards were given to health care leaders during the gala, who also participated in ‘fireside chat’ conversations with Johnson: 

• John ‘Jack’ W. Rowe, MD, Julius B. Richmond Professor of Health Policy and Aging, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, was honored with this year’s Healthcare Legacy award. Dr. Rowe is a pioneering researcher whose knowledge of health systems and the healthcare industry has benefited New Yorkers and older adults nationwide.  

• Tom Wright, president and CEO of Regional Plan Association (RPA), was bestowed with this year’s Bold and Brave Award. Wright has passionately worked to address climate change and advocated for affordable, livable communities in the greater New York City region.  

• Pat Wang, president and CEO of Healthfirst, received this year’s Health Equity Champion Award. Wang has demonstrated proactive leadership and unwavering support towards quality and equitable care for all. She has emphasized focusing on those who experience healthcare disparities.