NEOMED mourns the passing of Jay A. Gershen, D.D.S., Ph.D., on Nov. 12, 2020, from lymphoma and related complications. He was 74.
Dear NEOMED Community:
It is with deep sadness that I must share with you the passing of Jay A. Gershen, D.D.S., Ph.D., on Nov. 12, 2020. Dr. Gershen fought valiantly against lymphoma and related complications. He was 74 years old. A more detailed obituary will be shared soon.
Dr. Gershen spent 10 years as NEOMED’s sixth president. His tenure was filled with unprecedented growth for NEOMED. His vision and collaborative approach were applauded and embraced both inside and outside the NEOMED community. While Dr. Gershen’s storied career spans nearly 50 years from the East Coast to the West and his well-documented successes were among several organizations, the man we all call “Jay” was centered on celebrating anyone but himself.
Jay celebrated community, diversity and integrity. He thrived on collaboration, partnerships and inclusion. He cared about people, family and society. He enjoyed teaching, serving and research.
When receiving an award just last year, Jay said to regional leaders, “it’s only when we ensure that those who are underserved have access to education and training, healthy foods, safe communities and health care, that we can we truly realize the full potential of our region.” Jay cared about Northeast Ohioans. He was a true humanitarian.
As we all share in the Gershen family’s loss, we are thankful that Jay left us with so much promise and hope as well as big shoes to fill. He also left us with his own certainty ― one that you could see in his smile: One who spends a lifetime of giving will be touched in knowing that their kindness lives on in the recipients of their generosity.
In a message posted today on Caring Bridge, Carol informed Jay’s many friends of his passing, noting the profound sadness as the Gershen family said goodbye last night to “our amazing Jay.”
Amazing Jay … Amazing Grace.
Sincerely,
John T. Langell
Obituary