On September 19, New York State Department of Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D., announced $2 million in grant awards to strengthen New York’s capacity for stem cell research. They are the second set of grants awarded under New York’s multi-year stem cell research program. In January, $15 million in grants were awarded to 25 research institutions. The 2007-08 State budget created the Empire State Stem Cell Trust Fund, providing up to $600 million over 11 years for stem cell research.
      The following GNYHA members and affiliates received grants on September 19:

• Albert Einstein College of Medicine: $120,000 
• Montefiore Medical Center: $118,180
• New York Medical College: $119,705
• SUNY - Downstate Medical Center: $120,000

More information on New York’s stem cell research initiative can be found at the program Web site at www.stemcell.ny.gov.