Show-Me State Times

Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine has received a $10 million donation from an anonymous patient, honoring Gerald A. Maguire, M.D., a psychiatrist based in California and alumnus of the institution. Dr. Maguire has also pledged $100,000 to support his alma mater.

Christine K. Jacobs, M.D., dean of the School of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs, expressed gratitude for the contribution: “We are deeply grateful for this remarkable generosity, which will help us train future physicians who, like Dr. Maguire, provide exceptional, compassionate care and embody the Ignatian principle of cura personalis — care for the whole person.”

The funds will be allocated as follows: $3 million will establish the Gerald A. Maguire, M.D., and Joanne S. Maguire School of Medicine Cura Personalis Endowed Deanship; $2 million will fund the Gerald A. Maguire, M.D., and Joanne S. Maguire Endowed Chair in Neuropsychiatry Research and Education; and $5 million will be directed toward a new Health Education Center.

Dr. Maguire is currently director of residency training in psychiatry at College Medical Center in Long Beach, California, and faculty director of graduate medical education at Oroville Hospital in Northern California. He is recognized as a leading authority on pharmacologic treatment for stuttering and founded the first clinic dedicated to its scientific study.

Reflecting on his journey with SLU School of Medicine, Dr. Maguire said: “As a person who stutters, I am forever grateful to Saint Louis University School of Medicine for believing in my potential as a physician beyond my challenges with verbal communication.”

The donation aligns with SLU's 2022-2027 Strategic Plan aimed at advancing education, research, clinical care, and community engagement efforts.

“This legacy investment will help us accelerate our efforts to be the medical school of choice for those committed to improving the health of the communities we are privileged to serve,” Jacobs stated.

For further details on supporting SLU School of Medicine initiatives, visit their website.