Bartke honored as Donor of the Year
Dr. Andrzej Bartke, professor emeritus of internal medicine and physiology, has been named the Harbinger Society’s Distinguished Donor of the Year for 2024. The honor was announced at the group’s 40th annual Recognition Dinner at the Illini Country Club in May.
Coincidentally, Dr. Bartke began working at SIU School of Medicine 40 years ago — in July 1984, as professor and chair of the Department of Physiology in Carbondale. His vast knowledge of hormones, reproductive endocrinology and genetics, combined with his kindness and professionalism, have made him a prized colleague and instructor. He is an internationally renowned expert on “aging gracefully” and healthspan, said SIU Dean and Provost Dr. Jerry Kruse at the dinner.
In addition to Bartke’s significant research discoveries that have contributed to a better understanding of longevity, he has made financial contributions to SIU School of Medicine for 37 consecutive years. His favorite field to support is graduate education. At the dinner, he explained why.
“I always try to make graduate students understand how important they are to us, and how important they are as human beings,” he said. “Interacting with them has always been a privilege. It’s an area of activity that has been particularly close to my heart.”
