SMH receives $2.5 million gift for new research institute

Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation has recently received a gift of $2.5 million from doctors Gail and Joel Morganroth to support the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute, which is under construction at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. 

Their gift will help train medical staff, expand SMH’s residency programs and attract and retain medical professionals from around the country.

Joel Morganroth is a board-certified academic cardiologist and officer of the Foundation board. Gail, Morganroth is a board-certified nephrologist and leader in academic medicine at University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine.

“Professionally, we have a passion for research and education,” said Joel Morganroth. “Both programs are critical for recruiting and retaining outstanding physicians and medical staff.”

Scheduled to open in 2025, the Kolschowsky Research and Education Institute will expand research and training opportunities for physicians and clinicians. In addition to supporting clinical trials and research studies, it will offer a range of education programs including a simulation center that expands hands-on training opportunities for physicians, nurses and students mastering new treatments and technologies.

In recognition of the gift, the new auditorium at the Institute will be named the Morganroth Family Auditorium. The first-floor space will be a hub for system-level events, board meetings, lectures, conferences, educational classes and more.