AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 22, 2026
Baystate Health Receives Philanthropic Gifts
Baystate Health has announced the creation of two new endowed chairs—one in family medicine and one in pediatrics—thanks to generous philanthropic gifts. These newly established positions are intended to advance clinical care, medical education, research, and leadership at Baystate Health.
Newcomb Endowed Chair of Family Medicine
The Newcomb Endowed Chair of Family Medicine was established through a $1 million gift from the estate of William and Charlotte Newcomb. This endowment will specifically support Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield by strengthening its Family Medicine Residency Program. Key goals include enhancing faculty recruitment and retention, as well as supporting educational initiatives that focus on the unique needs of rural communities.
Dr. Robert Baldor Named Inaugural Chair Holder
Dr. Robert Baldor, the founding chair of Baystate Health’s Department of Family Medicine and a professor at UMass Chan Medical School-Baystate, has been named as the inaugural holder of the chair. Dr. Baldor acknowledged William and Charlotte Newcomb's decades-long commitment to healthcare in Franklin County, noting their dedication to compassionate, quality, and accessible care for the region.
Emil M. Ferris, MD Endowed Chair of Pediatrics
The second endowment honors Dr. Emil M. Ferris, who practiced as a pediatrician in Chicopee for over fifty years following the opening of his practice in 1950. The chair was established by Dr. Ferris's son, Paul Ferris, in recognition of his father’s lifelong commitment to patient care, medical education, and the training of future physicians.
Dr. Matthew D. Di Guglielmo Appointed Chair Holder
Dr. Matthew D. Di Guglielmo, chair of pediatrics and pediatrician-in-chief at Baystate Children’s Hospital, is the inaugural holder of the Ferris Endowed Chair of Pediatrics. Dr. Di Guglielmo joined Baystate in 2025 and will oversee the allocation of dedicated funding for various educational initiatives, faculty and trainee development, and academic programs within the pediatric department.
Supporting Medical Education and Faculty Development
The endowment associated with the pediatrics chair will also help establish the annual Dr. Emil M. Ferris Education Day, a visiting lectureship tied to Pediatric Grand Rounds. Dr. Emil M. Ferris was recognized for his hands-on approach to care, including home visits and extended office hours, and for his willingness to treat patients regardless of their ability to pay. He also taught future physicians as an associate clinical professor of pediatrics and provided services at multiple hospitals in the region.
Impact of Endowed Chairs on Baystate Health
According to Baystate Health officials, endowed chairs provide a permanent source of funding that enables physician leaders to pursue opportunities in medical education, research, faculty development, and clinical care. They are also instrumental in attracting and retaining top medical talent to the organization. Both the Newcomb and Ferris endowed chairs reflect a commitment to the advancement of resident programs, faculty development, and the strengthening of medical research and education at Baystate Health.
Source: wwlp.com.
