Dr. Susan Gitelson, (BA ’63, MIA ’66, PhD ’70) SIPA Leader & Donor Endows the Gitelson Award
Dr. Susan Gitelson
“I hope many other SIPA alumni, faculty and friends can experience the joy I have felt over the 38 years I have been giving the award as each student has demonstrated concern for other people and “human values” in different fields, countries, and themes. Through endowing the award I am looking forward to a continuing stream of worthwhile, inspiring winners for another 70, 100 or 140 years and beyond!” - Dr. Susan Gitelson ’MIA 66
Founded in 1978 by Dr. Susan Gitelson ’MIA 66, the Dr. Susan Aurelia Gitelson Award for Human Values in International Affairs has recognized outstanding work by SIPA students at graduation. A distinguished career in academia, international consulting and as an entrepreneur reinforced Dr. Gitelson’s passion for innovative solutions to policy challenges and sparked her decision to endow the Gitelson Award in perpetuity. Through both charitable gift annuities and a bequest intention, the endowed Gitelson award will have an expanded scope, recognizing and providing support for innovative work by SIPA faculty and students.
A triple Columbia alumna (Barnard, BA’63, MIA’66, PhD ’70), Dr. Gitelson was recognized for her professional achievements and service to Columbia with the Alumni Medal in 1984. She credits her SIPA experience with providing her with the tools and background to connect with people from all over the world for thoughtful exchanges that promote international entrepreneurial business, and contributing to cultural and philanthropic endeavors.#
