The AAP means something different to each of its 68,000 members. For Sheila L. Palevsky, M.D., M.P.H., FAAP, the Academy has served as her professional home for almost 40 years, and AAP members are like family. Its mission for children mirrors her own life’s passion.
Dr. Palevsky was introduced to the Academy by former AAP President Louis Z. Cooper, M.D., FAAP (2001-’02), who invited her to a New York Chapter 3 meeting. Dr. Cooper, who died in 2019, believed every pediatrician should advocate for children and the profession of pediatrics. He taught his young colleagues how to do so through the AAP. Dr. Pavelsky has continued as an advocate for children and the practice of pediatrics ever since.
Dr. Palevsky has dedicated countless hours to the Academy’s work for children as a member of the Section on Epidemiology, Public Health and Evidence Executive Committee and National Nominating Committee and president of New York Chapter 3. She sees the Academy’s role in public health as crucial to creating a society that is just, equitable and nurturing to children and families.
Dr. Palevsky met her husband, Joe Ingram, at a friend's wine tasting event. They bonded over good wine, which remains an important part of their life. The couple soon realized they shared a passion for travel, especially involving biking and hiking. They have explored communities through art, culture, music, food and wine for much of their married life and continue to do so today.
Sheila and Joe also share a desire to build a more equitable world. This shared passion led them to choose the AAP as the recipient of a gift through their estate.
“Of course we thought of the Academy,” Dr. Palevsky said. “It has been my home for so many years, and I always trust that the Academy will do the right thing for children.”
Dr. Palevsky and Mr. Ingram know that an investment in the AAP is an investment in our children’s future. They encourage every member of the Academy, and anyone who cares about children, to consider the AAP when thinking of legacy giving. They firmly believe the Academy is the organization best positioned to lead on issues of health equity for all children and are gratified by their decision to support the AAP mission.
To learn more about endowment giving, visit https://aap.planmygift.org/ or contact Jill Taylor at [email protected] or 630-626-6033.
