2 endowment funds to carry on doctor's legacy

Aultman Deuble Heart & Vascular Hospital recently announced the establishment of two endowment funds in memory of Dr. Harry J. D’Agostino Jr., commemorating his contributions to cardiothoracic surgery and patient care. These endowments are meant to serve as a lasting tribute to his dedication and impact on the field, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future generations of health care professionals.

D’Agostino’s wife Carman and their children Catherine Kelly and Harry III donated to help establish these endowments.

“We carry Harry with us in the love he gave, the lessons he taught and the strength he left behind,” Carman D’Agostino said.

“We hold close to our hearts the countless memories of his charming smile and quick wit,” Kelly and Harry III said.

“Dr. D’Agostino was a professional, colleague and friend,” said Dr. Akbar Shah, CEO of ADHVH. “Above all he was an educator. Teaching was a huge priority for him, and he always found time to teach. Appropriately, the Dr. Harry J. D’Agostino Jr. Cardiothoracic Symposium Endowment Fund will continue his legacy and enhance the knowledge of thousands of people in the field. We are grateful to Dr. D’Agostino for leaving a legacy of giving others the gift of knowledge. We are also grateful to his family for carrying on his legacy.”

The Dr. Harry J. D’Agostino Jr. Educational Programs Endowment Fund will support the continuing education of Aultman’s cardiothoracic health care professionals through workshops, training and conferences. A committee including representatives from ADHVH, Aultman affiliates and The Aultman Foundation will oversee the selection process.

The Dr. Harry J. D’Agostino Jr. Cardiothoracic Symposium Endowment Fund will establish an annual educational symposium beginning in 2026. This event will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange and professional collaboration, fostering innovation and best practices in cardiac and thoracic care. TAF, in collaboration with ADHVH and key stakeholders, will oversee planning, speaker selection and event coordination.

TAF is committed to promoting these endowments within the ADHVH community and beyond.

Alongside family, friends and the community, TAF plans to grow these endowments and expand their impact at ADHVH. Those interested in learning more or supporting the endowments’ growth can email Eric Belden, TAF vice president of development, at eric.belden@aultman.com or make a donation at www.aultman.org/DAgostinoTribute.