Harold M. Maurer, M.D., chancellor emeritus at UNMC, was selected as the 2016 recipient of the Babbott Award by the College of Medicine Alumni Association at the State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.
The award is named after Dr. Frank L. Babbott Jr., a pediatrician who is credited for having the vision to create a major medical center in Brooklyn. It recognizes alumni with distinguished service to both the medical profession and the general community. Dr. Maurer earned his medical degree in 1961 from State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center.
“It’s tremendously gratifying to be recognized by your peers, especially those at an institution with which I hold such great fondness,” said Dr. Maurer, who received the award on May 21 in New York.
Dr. Maurer served as chancellor of UNMC from 1998 to 2014. A pediatric oncologist, he is internationally known for his expertise in rhabdomyosarcoma, a childhood cancer. He chaired a research study group that is credited with raising the cure rate from 20 percent to 75 percent for children diagnosed with the cancer.
His achievements at UNMC include leading the merger of University Hospital and Clarkson Hospital to form what is now known as Nebraska Medicine, as well as leading the institution to new heights of excellence in education, research and clinical care.
Dr. Maurer also led a tremendous building boom on UNMC’s campus, mostly through the acquisition of philanthropic support for construction. Among the facilities constructed or whose construction began during Dr. Maurer’s tenure are the Durham Research Center towers, the Sorrell Center for Health Science Education, the Center for Nursing Science, the Harold M. and Beverly Maurer Center for Public Health, the Truhlsen Eye Institute and the Fred & Pamela Buffett Cancer Center.
Well deserved and congratulations. The only down side there is likely not enough room on your wall to accommodate all of the awards and accolades.