DaRe Family Established New Medical Chair in Bethlehem

The first endowed chair for medical education at St. Luke’s will support student aid and faculty development.

Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Scholarships

DaRe Family Established New Medical Chair in Bethlehem

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Tony and Adrienne DaRe have established the DaRe Family Chair for Medical Education at St. Luke's University Health Network in Bethlehem. This is the first endowed chair at the network dedicated specifically to advancing medical education and training.

Why it matters

The endowment will provide sustainable funding for student financial aid, faculty development, and innovative educational programming. This investment aims to bolster the regional medical workforce by better preparing future physicians to serve local communities.

The medical school's endowment now exceeds $30 million, supporting an institution that has seen a 33% increase in enrollment. Approximately 30% of graduates remain at St. Luke's for their residency training.

The players

Tony and Adrienne DaRe

The couple has provided support to nearly 30 colleges, universities, public schools, and early-education organizations.

Dr. Shaden Eldakar-Hein

She serves as the chief academic officer at St. Luke's and previously acted as the senior associate dean of the Temple/St. Luke's School of Medicine.

St. Luke's University Health Network

This is a regional healthcare provider that includes the Temple/St. Luke's School of Medicine.

The details

Dr. Shaden Eldakar-Hein, who became St. Luke's chief academic officer on December 1, 2025, has been appointed as the inaugural chair holder. The fund will generate income to support the academic priorities of the medical school.

2020: Dr. Shaden Eldakar-Hein began serving as senior associate dean.
December 1, 2025: Dr. Shaden Eldakar-Hein became St. Luke's chief academic officer.
October 14, 2026: Announcement of the established endowed chair.

Culture Shift

This gift follows the established pattern of private benefactors increasing capital to secure the future of regional medical education programs. It reflects a broader shift toward donor-funded educational stability in the competitive healthcare talent landscape.

Prospective medical students at the Bethlehem campus may benefit from increased availability of financial aid supported by this new endowment. Residents of the Lehigh Valley may see long-term health benefits as the school continues to train and retain local physicians.

The takeaway

Private philanthropic investment serves as a critical pillar for maintaining the growth and quality of regional medical schools. Prospective students and faculty should monitor future updates regarding how these specific funds are allocated to new program developments.