From May 16–18, more than 220 alumni and friends returned to Philadelphia for Reunion and Alumni Weekend 2025—the Lewis Katz School of Medicine’s highest-attended alumni celebration since the pandemic. Over three unforgettable days, the energy, pride, and purpose that define Temple physicians filled spaces across the city—from the Medical Education and Research Building (MERB) Lobby in North Philadelphia to the galleries of The Barnes Foundation.
“This weekend wasn’t just a celebration—it was a reflection of who we are as a community,” said Amy J. Goldberg, MD, FACS, the Marjorie Joy Katz Dean. “Our alumni are a living extension of our mission, and their passion continues to strengthen the future of our school.”
Enjoy photos from Reunion and Alumni Weekend.
The weekend began Friday evening at The Logan Hotel, where alumni reconnected over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres during the Welcome Social. The space was filled with conversation—old friends catching up, classmates making new introductions, and shared reflections on where their journeys began.
“It means so much to be back,” said Alumna of the Year Dr. Aletha Maybank, MD ’00. “Temple gave me the foundation to become the kind of physician and leader I wanted to be. Being here again, surrounded by people who understand that journey, is powerful.”
On Saturday morning, MERB welcomed alumni for a chance to reconnect with the school and one another at the Dean’s Brunch and Alumni Awards Ceremony. The day began with the NMA Alumni Connection coffee reception, where alumni, residents, and Student National Medical Association members gathered for conversation and networking. Tours of Katz’s academic spaces followed, showcasing the innovation shaping medical education—from the William Maul Measey Institute for Clinical Simulation to the Carson D. Schneck, MD, PhD Anatomy Lab. Guests also visited Temple University Hospital’s main campus, where Katz students train alongside clinicians in a leading academic medical center.
The brunch was emceed by Fred Liss, MD ’85, current president of the Medical Alumni Association and a proud member of a multi-generation Temple family. “It’s truly wonderful to welcome so many of our fellow alumni back to campus,” he said. “I hope this reunion—and other moments like it throughout the year—encourage more alumni to stay engaged and connected to Katz.”
Dean Goldberg, welcomed alumni home and shared an update on the school’s direction. She highlighted the momentum behind Inspiring Excellence, Katz’s five-year strategic plan, and spoke about the school’s growing strength in research, its commitment to innovation, and the evolution of a precision approach to medical education.
“No matter where your careers have taken you, your alma mater is thriving,” said Dr. Goldberg. “You are part of the Temple family—and a strong alumni network doesn’t just reflect who we are, it actively shapes where we’re going.”
The program also celebrated the 2025 Medical Alumni Association Award recipients—eight extraordinary alumni whose careers exemplify the spirit of Temple Made physicians:
Page M. and Henry P. Laughlin Alumna of the Year:
Dr. Aletha Maybank, MD ’00, a national leader in public health and equity.
Medical Alumni Achievement Award:
Dr. Daniel T. Altman, MD ’90, an expert in orthopaedic spine trauma and education.
Dr. Harris M. Nagler, MD ’75, a distinguished urologist, academic leader, and member of the Katz Board of Visitors.
Medical Alumni Service Award:
Dr. Kathleen V. Greatrex, MD ’90, a dedicated breast imaging specialist and advocate for cancer awareness and education.
Honored Professor Award:
Dr. Mary T. Pronovost, MD ’90, a respected breast surgeon and celebrated educator at Katz.
Emerging Leader Award:
Dr. Rushani Weerasooriya Saltzman, MD ’05, a pediatric allergist recognized for her clinical innovation and leadership in patient experience.
Distinguished Resident Alumni Award:
Dr. Matthew Watto, MD, RES ’13 and Dr. Paul N. Williams, MD, RES ’13, the first-ever recipients of this new award recognizing outstanding contributions from Katz-trained residents. Co-hosts of The Curbsiders podcast, they are nationally recognized for transforming medical education through accessible, high-impact digital learning.
That sense of connection continued Saturday evening during a signature celebration at The Barnes Foundation. Surrounded by world-class art, guests enjoyed cocktails, gourmet fare, and live music. A special cocktail hour honored the milestone reunion classes of 1970 and 1975, along with Golden Owls—alumni who graduated 50+ years ago.
The Class of 1975 marked their 50th Reunion with extraordinary generosity, coming together to establish the Class of 1975 Scholarship, an endowed fund to support future students. Their effort was matched by the Dean’s Fund. “This was about more than just coming back,” said one reunion volunteer. “It was about celebrating where we started—and investing in where Katz is going.”
The weekend concluded on Sunday at Citizens Bank Park, where alumni and families gathered in a special section to cheer on the Phillies, wrapping up the celebration with sunshine, smiles, and Temple pride.
“The strength of the Katz alumni network really came through this weekend,” said Georgeann Moore, Assistant Dean for Development and Alumni Relations. “When alumni show up, stay connected, and give back, it makes a real difference—for the school today and for its future.”
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