The university will present an honorary doctorate to Dr. Albert Bourla, Chairman and CEO of Pfizer. During his more than 25 years at Pfizer, Dr. Bourla accelerated the company’s transformation to become a more science-driven, innovative company. Under his leadership, Pfizer delivered a safe and effective vaccine for COVID-19 in just eight months—a process that typically takes eight to ten years— without compromising quality or integrity. A year later, Pfizer delivered the first FDA-authorized oral antiviral treatment for COVID-19.

“Albert Bourlas’s drive to have a transformational impact on human health mirror’s Touro’s own commitment to transform students’ lives through education and career opportunities. We are honored to present him with an honorary degree and welcome him to our community,” said Touro President Alan Kadish.

In addition to its 50th anniversary, Touro is celebrating its new university status, a singular accomplishment. University status is awarded to academic institutions in recognition of the breadth and depth of degree programs offered. At Touro’s 35 schools across four countries, students are pursuing undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees in such fields as medicine, law, dentistry, business, education, Jewish studies and other health science areas and disciplines.

Touro will honor several individuals who led the university’s expansion and impact over the past 50 years.

Dovid Lichtenstein is an entrepreneur, real estate investor and a Touro University board member. He is the founder and CEO of The Lightstone Group, one of the largest and most diversified privately held real estate companies in the United States. He has authored several volumes entitled Headlines, which highlight contemporary issues in Jewish law, based on his weekly podcast, Halacha Headlines.

Dr. Robert Goldschmidt joined Touro in 1974 and has served in many capacities, including his current role as Touro Vice President for Planning and Assessment and Executive Dean at Touro’s Lander College of Arts & Sciences in Brooklyn. He also serves as the Touro College Accreditation Liaison to the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

Hon. Shelley Berkley is Senior Vice President of External Affairs of the Touro University System. She previously served as CEO and Senior Provost of Touro’s Western Division, where she was administrative and academic head of the Nevada and Northern California campuses of Touro University. Prior to that role, Shelley served the State of Nevada in the United States House of Representatives from 1998 to 2013.

Dr. Alan Kadish is President of the Touro University System. He is a prominent cardiologist, dedicated teacher, researcher and scientist and experienced administrator. Alan Kadish, M.D., has developed Touro into one of the largest healthcare educational systems in the U.S.

For more information or to reserve tickets, please visit 50.touro.edu/gala