Yale Health Center recently unveiled its “The Arts at Yale Health” 2025 exhibit at its building on 55 Lock St., a new showcase that features original works of art reflecting the university’s health and wellness goals and a new recognition wall honoring generations of Yale Health leaders.
The new exhibition, “Grow With Us” — which was dedicated during a celebration event on April 24 — includes new pieces by more than 20 artists (including Yale employees, faculty members, and students) which aims to cultivate a visually and intellectually stimulating atmosphere that aligns with Yale’s health and wellness goals.
Art is not only a reflection of health but also a tool to build it.
Briana Cuomo, manager of employee relations for Yale Health and the event’s organizer, emphasized the dual nature of the celebration.
“The theme ‘Grow With Us’ beautifully reflects both the creative spirit of this show and the ongoing evolution of Yale Health,” Cuomo said. “This event symbolizes our commitment to continuous growth — not just in our work but also in how we care for each other, learn from one another, and build community through creativity and connection.”
Joining the celebration as a special guest was Judith Lichtman, the Susan Dwight Bliss Professor of Epidemiology at the Yale School of Public Health, who is renowned for her work bridging the gap between research and real-life impact. She is also the founder of the HAPPY Initiative, which integrates the humanities, arts, and public health.
Her presence underscored the event’s theme by highlighting the intersection of art and health, organizers said.
“Art is not only a reflection of health but also a tool to build it,” Lichtman said, reinforcing the critical role of creativity in promoting well-being.
The dedication event opened with an introduction of the new recognition wall, which honors past CEOs of Yale Health as well as recipients of the Better Together awards.
“This wall is a lasting tribute to the visionary leaders who have shaped Yale Health across the decades,” said Jason Fish, CEO of Yale Health, who introduced the 2025 exhibit. “It tells the part of our journey, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the values that define us.”
The recognition wall features the contributions of prominent figures like Daniel S. “Pete” Rowe, who was co-founder of the Yale Health Plan and served as its director for two decades, pioneering comprehensive, compassionate health care for the Yale community.
Jason Fish, Stephanie Spangler, Paul Genecin, Lorraine Siggins, and Nanci J. Fortgang
During the event, other former Yale Health leaders — including Stephanie Spangler, vice provost for health affairs and academic integrity — reflected on their impactful tenures. Spangler highlighted the transformation she experienced since arriving at Yale Health in 1986 as both a provider and patient.
“The opportunity to care for the Yale community in partnership with Yale Health’s devoted providers and staff has been the privilege of a lifetime,” she said, echoing the collective sentiment of dedication and service.
Lorraine Siggins, who served as interim CEO from 1995 to 1997, noted the integral role of a strong health service in the university’s mission. “During my time at Yale Health, I witnessed firsthand how our service balanced broad institutional goals with the needs of individual students and employees,” she said.
Paul Genecin, the former longtime CEO of Yale Health (1997-2023) described his 25-year tenure as “a great privilege.” “I am delighted to see Yale Health continue to thrive—now, as a grateful patient,” he said.
Nanci J. Fortgang, who stepped in as interim CEO in 2023 during a challenging post-pandemic period, also expressed gratitude — and highlighted the importance of unity. “Through it all, we are truly better together,” she said, emphasizing the theme of collective effort that has been central to Yale Health’s success.
During the event, some of the artists whose works are featured in the new exhibition — including Wendy Zhang, a Yale College senior; Bryn Souza, a Yale Health member; and Lisa Kereszi ’00 M.F.A., a senior critic and assistant director in photography at Yale School of Art — described their creative processes and the inspiration behind their works.
Wendy Zhang
The “dual celebration” offered a reminder of the powerful synergy between art and health care and the unwavering dedication of the Yale Health community, said Cuomo, who organized the event.
“It honored the past and present leaders,” Fish, CEO of Yale Health, said of the event. “And it showcased Yale Health’s vibrant, evolving spirit.”
For inquiries about the artwork on display, please contact Meredith Miller ’03 M.F.A., senior photographer at the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library.
