The Annual Robert M. Jeresaty, MD, Cardiovascular Symposium at Saint Francis Hospital returned for its 62nd year, continuing a long-standing tradition of advancing excellence in cardiovascular care. The nation’s longest-running cardiovascular symposium brings together more than 200 clinicians from across the country for two days of high-quality continuing education, collaboration, and shared learning.
Named for the Institute’s first Medical Director, the symposium reflects the enduring legacy of Dr. Robert M. Jeresaty, whose visionary leadership helped shape cardiovascular medicine at Saint Francis and beyond. Dr. Jeresaty began his career at the hospital in 1958 as a medical resident and went on to serve as its first Chief of Cardiology for 35 years. He founded the symposium to foster clinical excellence and knowledge exchange and played a key role in establishing the Hoffman Heart and Vascular Institute of Connecticut in partnership with Saint Francis and the Maximilian E. and Marion O. Hoffman Foundation.
A pioneer in the field, Dr. Jeresaty performed Saint Francis’ first cardiac catheterization in 1959, setting the stage for decades of innovation in cardiovascular care. Over the course of his distinguished career, he earned numerous honors, including the Saint Francis Spirit Award, the Distinguished Physician Award, and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the the hospital. His commitment to Saint Francis extended beyond his clinical and academic contributions; together with his late wife, Cathie, he was also a generous philanthropic supporter of the hospital.
In addition, the Maximilian E. and Marion O. Hoffman Foundation recently reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to Saint Francis with a $250,000 gift to support the symposium’s future. For more than three decades, the Foundation has been a steadfast partner, contributing more than $9 million to advance patient care and medical education at the hospital.
The continued success and sustainability of the symposium are made possible through the generosity of philanthropic and corporate partners. Support from organizations including Medtronic and other community contributors helps ensure that this important educational forum remains accessible and at the forefront of emerging cardiovascular science and practice.