The De Lamar Society

The De Lamar Society recognizes the critical importance of donors making annual gifts of $500 or more to strengthen the mission of Columbia’s Mailman School of Public Health. The De Lamar Society exists to provide financial support to Columbia’s Mailman School through the development of a culture of leadership-level giving by all members of the Columbia Mailman community. The investment that De Lamar Society members make in public health research and education holds the promise of a healthier future. It has a tangible impact on the lives of people today and on the systems that will continue to shape health and create wellbeing for generations.

De Lamar Society Privileges

  • Invitations to seminars featuring leaders in the field discussing developments in research and in the field of public health
  • Updates from School leadership on public health initiatives and strategic plans, as well as news and updates from the School
  • Opportunities to meet scholarship recipients and hear about their successes and goals
  • Donors making gifts of $5,000 or more will have an opportunity to name a seat in the Auditorium located in the Allan Rosenfield Building.

De Lamar Society Giving Levels

  • De Lamar Council: $10,000 and above
  • De Lamar Circle: $5,000–$9,999
  • De Lamar Benefactor: $1,000–$4,999
  • De Lamar Partner: $500–$999
  • De Lamar Fellow (open to graduates of the last decade): $250–$499*

Joseph R. De Lamar

In 1922, the Joseph De Lamar Institute of Public Health, the precursor to today’s Mailman School of Public Health, was founded with a $3 million bequest from Joseph R. De Lamar (1843-1918), a Dutch born sea captain, industrialist, and champion of public health education. After the Institute’s upgrade to a standalone school in 1945, the De Lamar Professorship of Public Health was established, a chair currently held by Dean and De Lamar Professor Linda P. Fried.

For information on the De Lamar Society, please contact the Office of Development and Alumni Relations (msphalum@cumc.columbia.edu).