One couple's commitment to the physicians of tomorrow
For too many aspiring physicians, the dream of a top-tier medical education clashes with the stark reality of affording one. But now, thanks to the efforts of alumnus Donald C. Shina, MD (MED ’74), and his husband, Kevin Waidmann, (GRS ’91, organizational development and analysis), this dream is within reach for some future physicians at Case Western Reserve.
Driven by a deeply held belief that financial circumstances should not determine who practices medicine and that the field is enriched by diverse backgrounds and perspectives, Shina and Waidmann have committed to establish the Donald C. Shina, MD and Kevin Waidmann Endowed Scholarship Fund at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine.
“Medical education, in particular, has the potential to benefit society for the entire professional life of a physician,” said Shina. “Supporting medical education, in a sense, is an investment in years of potential societal benefits. If young doctors can leave medical school with manageable debt, more focus can be directed on patient care and less on repaying loans.”
The scholarship aims to help at least one student each year, allowing recipients to concentrate on their education and future careers.
“We are grateful for the generosity of Don and Kevin in establishing this endowment, which will help us attract exceptional students—the very individuals poised to redefine patient care and medical science for generations to come,” said Stan Gerson, MD, School of Medicine dean and senior vice president for medical affairs. “Their contribution creates a lasting financial support system for the next generation of
leaders, innovators and healers.”
Shina and Waidmann’s commitment to supporting aspiring physicians has a long history. When Shina’s graduating medical school class was falling short of the threshold for establishing a class scholarship, the couple successfully initiated a campaign to raise the amount necessary to establish one. This is in addition to their ongoing support of the School of Medicine annual fund.
Shina and Waidmann hope their philanthropy will inspire other alumni to give back and help shape the future of medicine.
“Many donors will be needed to significantly impact the burden that so many students face when they graduate,” said Shina. “If our gift can encourage other alumni to commit to supporting one student per year, it could have a significant impact on how the university can use its resources to continue and develop an innovative educational program.”
Originally published in the summer 2025 issue of Forward Thinking magazine