Drs. George and Maria Tsokos Commit $300,000 to Establish Endowed Recruitment Fund to Strengthen Rheumatology Workforce
ATLANT, GA. – (February 1, 2025) – The Rheumatology Research Foundation proudly announces the establishment of the George and Maria Tsokos Endowed Recruitment Fund. Made possible by a generous commitment from Drs. George and Maria Tsokos, this endowment aims to encourage students and residents to learn more about rheumatology and pursue careers in the field by supporting a variety of real-world learning experiences.
Drs. George and Maria Tsokos, both distinguished physician-scientists, met at Athens Medical School in Greece before advancing their careers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and in academic medicine. George serves as a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and the Chief of the Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. Maria is a Professor in Residence of Medicine at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Grateful for the opportunities that shaped their own paths, they are dedicated to creating similar opportunities for future generations through philanthropy.
“Philanthropy, for us, means trying to solve the issues that matter most,” said Dr. George Tsokos. “We’ve been fortunate to contribute to causes that align with our values—supporting children’s hospitals, addressing homelessness, and ensuring food security in Greater Boston. But as a rheumatologist, I feel a deep responsibility to invest in the future of our own field.”
Recognizing the urgent need to attract and support aspiring rheumatologists, the Tsokoses hope their gift will encourage more students to consider the specialty. “We must create an environment where people can grow and thrive,” added Dr. Maria Tsokos. “It’s essential to support those who want to go beyond general practice and show them what’s possible.”
Their commitment to recruitment is deeply personal, shaped by their own experiences with mentorship and opportunity. “This is our field. We own it. We should support it,” they emphasized.
When asked what advice he would give to others considering a significant contribution to the Foundation, Dr. George Tsokos simply stated, “If you have it in your heart, do it.”
The Rheumatology Research Foundation is honored to partner with Drs. George and Maria Tsokos in this vital effort. Their generosity not only strengthens rheumatology recruitment today but also inspires future generations to invest in the field’s continued growth.
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About the Rheumatology Research Foundation
The Rheumatology Research Foundation is the largest private funding source of rheumatology research and training programs in the U.S. Established in 1985, the Foundation is focused on advancing patient care and accelerating discoveries in rheumatic diseases. More information about the Foundation can be found at rheumresearch.org.