Research
New Memorial Wall Honors Nation's Veterans

A wall to honor veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces was dedicated today in a ceremony in the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) Saunders Research Building. The wall was inspired by philanthropist Philip Saunders who, when he agreed to lend his name to the building, requested that it recognize the contribution and sacrifice of those who have served in the country’s armed forces.
Saunders, a Rochester businessman, has long been a supporter of URMC. In 2011, he donated $10 million – one of the largest gifts ever in the history of the Medical Center – for neuromuscular research. URMC’s newest research building, then known as the Clinical and Translational Science Building, was renamed to recognize his generosity.
The new wall is located in the building’s atrium and is inscribed with a quote from Saunders encouraging researchers to honor veterans and their families by tackling the nation’s health problems:
“Let us never forget the sacrifices made by our veterans and their families, and may the research within this building bring healing to them and others.”
“I want to thank Phil for his dedication to our veterans and making sure that they are never forgotten,” said Bradford C. Berk, M.D., Ph.D., CEO of URMC. “His generosity is an inspiration and I am confident that the discoveries produced in this building will help improve the lives of not only our veterans but countless other people across the globe.”
The Saunders Research Building, which opened in 2011, is home to the Clinical and Translational Science Institute, academic departments, and research programs in cancer, pediatrics, emergency medicine, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular disease.

Philip Saunders