Upstate Medical University has received a $4.5 million bequest from an alumnus and his wife that will fund medical student scholarships and create two endowed faculty positions, university officials announced Wednesday.
Dr. Christopher G. Ullrich, a 1976 graduate, and his wife, Betsy C. Ullrich, designated $1 million of the gift for scholarships supporting second- and third-year medical students in the Alan and Marlene Norton College of Medicine. The balance will establish endowed positions in neuroradiology and radiology to strengthen academic and clinical leadership at the college.
“This extraordinary generosity strengthens the foundation of our mission,” said Upstate Medical University President Dr. Mantosh Dewan. The investment will expand student opportunities and advance medical research and care, he said.
Norton College of Medicine Dean Dr. Lawrence Chin said the bequest tackles financial barriers for students while providing stability for faculty who direct teaching and research programs.
“Both gifts are about creating conditions for excellence,” Chin said. “The Ullrichs have left a powerful legacy.”
Dr. Ullrich, a Rochester native, spent nearly 40 years as a neuroradiologist with Charlotte Radiology in North Carolina. He served on national and state radiology organizations and contributed to health policy as a member of the North Carolina State Health Coordinating Council. His work earned him the American College of Radiology Gold Medal, awarded posthumously.
The couple supported health care, education and animal rescue causes throughout their lives. Betsy Ullrich previously donated to the Lavery Library Modernization and Renovation Project, which features the Christopher ’72 and Betsy Ullrich Atrium.
Christopher Ullrich died in 2021, and Betsy Ullrich died last year.
The scholarships and endowed faculty positions will begin supporting students and faculty in upcoming academic cycles.
Couple leaves $4.5M to SUNY Upstate Medical University for scholarships, faculty
