CBS 12's Extraordinary People: Legacy for FAU College of Medicine Students

Story By: Michele Wright / CBS 12 News
BOCA RATON, Fla.-- Big things are happening in 2013 at Florida Atlantic University...thanks to a medical professor and the legacy he and his wife have gifted to the medical school.

Florida Atlantic University's Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine has just announced a $3 million dollar gift to endow medical student scholarships. The historic & generous gift by FAU faculty member Dr. Morton Levitt and his wife Cindy will help FAU continue to recruit and educate the best and brightest men and women in South Florida who will become our future doctors.

"From the earliest days that I can remember, the talk around the table in my house was about my parents work in their volunteer capacity and their philanthropy."

From his family Dr. Levitt learned the importance of investing in education and in the lives of students. Recognized nationally for his expertise and an active faculty member, he knew that FAU was the place he wanted to make a difference for years to come.

"It wasn't until I got here and our wonderful president, visionary dean and the others that I work with everyday did I realize that this was the place that I wanted to leave that legacy."

A legacy for the only medical school in Palm Beach County... humbly presented with a standing ovation at the sold-out Gala at the Royal Palm Yacht Club. Over 300 including Mayor Susan Whelchel attended the Your Medical School celebration.

"As I said at the gala, this is really the full-fillment of a lifelong dream."

The college has received over 3000 applications for the 3rd medical class with 64 openings. As the cost of tuition and expenses rise, Dr. Levitt has one mission.

"For me, it's all about the students."

A new year. A new mission through the Compassionate Care through Education scholarship campaign.

"Were going to be here for a very long time. And this is an opportunity for people to get involved. Whether its by donation or volunteering their time or hosting and event. There's many, many ways to get involved."

For more information about Florida Atlantic University's Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine click HERE

Read more about FAUs Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine Announces $3 Million Gift the Dr. Morton and Cynthia Levitt Endowed Scholarship for Medical Education click HERE

To donate or volunteer click HERE

If you know an extraordinary person or extraordinary people making a positive difference in South Florida, email Michele Wright at mwright@cbs12.com, tweet her HERE or submit your nomination on-line below. We'd love to hear about it.

CLICK HERE to fill out a submission formCBS 12's Extraordinary People: Legacy for FAU College of Medicine Students

Monday, April 29 2013, 10:32 AM EDT