The subject of ‘stem cells’ has been broadly bandied about in the press, on TV and possibly in your houses of worship. The probability is that not everyone is aware of the science of stem cells. To this end, CUAASC, with the help of a P&S alumnus and the campus alumni office, has obtained the services of three outstanding professors from the College of Physicians & Surgeons to present a seminar discussing the science of this subject. Each lecturer is a ‘star’ in the field.

We will be privileged to welcome as our panel, Dean of the Faculties of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Medicine, Gerald D. Fischbach, M.D.; Dr. Ruth L. Fischbach, Professor of Bioethics, and Director of the Center for Bioethics at Columbia University; and Dr. Asa Abeliovitch, Assistant Professor at Columbia’s Taub Institute for the Aging Brain.

The goal of this seminar is to educate the interested layperson in the various scientific approaches to stem cell research. We hope to put to rest ill-conceived notions of this potentially very important branch of scientific discovery.

Columbia University Medical Center is a premier stem cell research institution. The university’s unparalleled track record in neuroscience, developmental biology, and cell replacement therapy places Columbia is in an ideal position to advance this emerging field. Stem cell research has the potential to revolutionize the practice of medicine, offering hope for restoration to patients affected by disabling diseases such as stroke, Parkinson’s, and spinal cord injury.

As you can see, we have something of interest for almost any of our alums. You know that the information will be of collegiate level. Because of the attraction to this subject and the scholarly panel that we have created, the space at the Skirball may be limited by the expected attendance. Please send in your reservations early. [Check with me on the availability of the new Columbia website for reservations.]

Our seminar program will be the following:

Sunday, November 6, 2005
11:30 AM – noon: Registration
Noon – 1:00 PM Lunch
1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Seminar

The Skirball Cultural Center on the west side of the 405 in the Sepulveda pass. The ‘Skirball Center Drive/Mulholland Drive’ off ramp is available from both the northbound and southbound lanes. There is no charge for parking.

The cost for the seminar and a deluxe buffet luncheon is $35 for CUAASC members and guests, and $40 for non-members. Please send your reservations and checks made out to ‘CUAASC’ to: CUAASC, c/o Harold S. Wittner, Inc., 3916 Sepulveda Blvd., Suite 104, Culver City, CA 90230.

For inquiries, please contact Dr. Mel Schrier at 310-541-1947, or email at: [email protected]