Philanthropy Update

Family Honors Silverman with Memorial Scholarship

Close-up face shot of main with dark hair and eyes, smiling at camera

When Steven D. Silverman, MD ’74, died in September 2020, his family, patients and friends chose to honor him by establishing a memorial scholarship at the medical school that helped him as a student after the loss of his father.

Silverman, 71, died from complications related to COVID-19. Over many years as an ob-gyn, he delivered thousands of babies for families at the Comprehensive Women’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. His patients, many of whom considered him a good friend, recalled his humor, love of travel and ability to put people at ease.

After his father died during Silverman’s first year at the Wake Forest School of Medicine, Silverman questioned whether he would have the resources to continue his medical education. He credited Doug Maynard, MD ’59, then dean of students, for giving him the time and support he needed to get through his first-year classes. The New York City native went on to graduate and completed his residency at Hartford Hospital in Connecticut, where he and his wife, Valerie, met.

The family directed all memorial gifts to the Steven D. Silverman, MD Scholarship Fund, which received strong support throughout his community. Those who wish to support the scholarship can direct gifts to the Office of Philanthropy and Alumni Relations, Wake Forest School of Medicine, PO Box 571021, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1021.

The School of Medicine’s inaugural Silverman Scholar will be named in 2022.