About White Coats-4-Care
Each year, the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine proudly welcomes a new class of physicians-in-training. The White Coats-4-Care initiative and reception help mark this milestone while providing philanthropic support for scholarships, biomedical research, and innovation in medical education. Over the past 15 years, WC4C has raised more than $2.7 million, helping make medical education accessible and empowering the next generation of compassionate healthcare leaders who will serve our community and beyond.
Invest. Innovate. Champion.
Together. We Can Shape the Future of Medicine.

About June Gelb
Alongside her husband, the late Dr. Ira J. Gelb, a respected cardiologist and educator who played a key role in establishing the Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University, June shared a vision rooted in opportunity, compassion, and service. Together, their commitment continues to inspire students, faculty, and the broader FAU medical community.
The June and Ira J. Gelb, MD Endowed Scholarship Fund
The June and Ira J. Gelb, MD Endowed Scholarship Fund for Medical Student Education has made a meaningful and lasting impact on aspiring physicians. These scholarships help reduce financial barriers, allowing students to focus on their academic studies and clinical training while preparing to serve their communities.
Scholarship Impact:
- Supports medical students pursuing careers in healthcare
- Eases the financial burden of medical education
- Strengthens the future of medicine through student success and service
In recognition of their extraordinary contributions, the June and Ira J. Gelb, MD Auditorium at the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine proudly bears their name—a lasting tribute to their vision and generosity.
Thank You To Our 2026 Sponsors!
Ticket Level Sponsors
Healthcare Champion
Compassionate Care Partner
Healthcare Hero
Wellness Warrior
Friends of the Schmidt College of Medicine
Partner Sponsors
Medical Student Sponsor
Beverage Sponsor
Dessert Sponsor
Dessert Sponsor
Valet Sponsor
Entertainment Sponsor
Belle Medical GroupStephanie Gopie, M.D. '2013 and Mr. Michael Mangra
Entertainment Sponsor
Wells Fargo AdvisorsDoug Mithun
Thank You Gift Sponsor
Host Committee Members
- Maurice & Margie Plough – Event Chair
- Mark Swillinger – Honorary Chair
- Patricia Anastasio, MD & Thomas Mersch, Esq
- Vicki & Anthony Barbar
- Florida State Senator Lori Berman & Jeffrey Ganeles, DMD
- Donna & Joseph Biase, MD
- Alisa & G. Richard Cohen, MD
- Michael Dennis, MD
- Diane Frank
- Emily & Stephen Grabelsky, MD
- Maged Habib, MD
- Bonnie Halperin & Hilly Dubin, MD
- Marcia & Doug Mithun
- Fran & Nathan Nachlas, MD
- Anitha Patel, MD
- Sharon & Moshe Peress, MD
- Leah Roberts, MD'16
- Constance Scott
- Robin Trompeter
- Judith & Howard Weiner, MD
- Janice Williams
- Ilene & Peter Wohlgemuth, DMD
- Bonnie and Jon Kaye – Co-Chairs Emeriti