Barry Feldman and Paul Wehn Lead by Example with Support for New Wolstein Center
When Barry Feldman and Paul Wehn attended an event to learn more about the vision for the new Iris S. and Bert L. Wolstein Center at UH Cleveland Medical Center, they were moved by its focus on medical education and discovery.
An aspect that particularly stood out was the sophistication of the planned medical simulation training labs. “It’s like flight simulation for pilots,” said Paul. “It gives caregivers familiarity and confidence with innumerable scenarios that they may see in patients, even newly emergent ones.”
“We immediately chose to make a commitment because we understood the monumental value that this space would have for UH caregivers, and consequently for our community,” recalled Barry.
Their $1 million gift will be recognized with the naming of the Feldman-Wehn Family Concourse. Running through the center of the facility, the concourse will welcome visitors and diffuse energy and learning throughout the building. “The concourse is an aptly symbolic entryway into this new model of teaching, learning and gathering,” said Paul. “It will be a beautiful structure, but there is real beauty in what it embodies.”
The 40,000-square-foot Iris S. and Bert L. Wolstein Center will be a state-of-the-art education, conference and training facility on the health system’s flagship campus in University Circle. The dynamic venue will also house a great hall, gallery, medical education center, classroom and medical simulation training. The fully philanthropically funded project launched last year with a lead gift from Iris S. Wolstein and the late Bert L. Wolstein. Recently, the project received design approval from the Cleveland City Planning Commission.
Below, check out a fly-through video of the Iris S. and Bert L. Wolstein Center for a vivid look at what’s to come.
Seeing the Good in Giving
Neither Barry nor Paul saw themselves becoming philanthropists.
“We didn’t always think we could give at this level. We worked diligently, and we wish to see our treasures do good for others in our lifetime,” said Barry. “Many people miss the opportunity and joy of seeing what they can do to help people in their lifetime – and this is the gift!”
Barry and Paul, partners in philanthropy, have supported UH for years, including UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Angie Fowler Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Institute; the original construction and subsequent expansion of UH Ahuja Medical Center; and as Presenting Sponsors of the Palm Beach Rainbow Circle of Friends for 16 years running. Barry also serves as a member of the UH National Art Leadership Council.
“From the top of UH down,” said Barry, “no one has forgotten its purpose: meeting the greatest medical needs of its growing number of communities. The Wolstein Center will be an exciting new chapter of that history.”
Learn More about the Wolstein Center In Person
UH is hosting a series of upcoming Lunch and Learn sessions where guests can hear about the UH Wolstein Center from medical leaders and supporters like Barry and Paul. For more information, please contact Ryan R. Cross, Vice President, Institutional Relations & Development, at 216-844-0410 or Ryan.Cross@UHhospitals.org.