Suffolk Reporter

Carly Gomes, MD, an assistant professor of pediatrics at the Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, has been named a fellow in the State University of New York (SUNY) Hispanic Leadership Institute's class of 2025. She is among ten emerging Hispanic leaders and allies selected for this prestigious program.

Gomes specializes in neonatal intensive care, focusing her research on NMDA receptors in early brain development and neonatal neuropathologies. She is committed to promoting diversity within medicine and science fields through her involvement in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

The announcement was made by SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. on November 19. The program is entering its eighth year since it began in 2017, with the new fellows starting their journey in January 2025.

Supported by New York State and the State Assembly and Senate Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force, SUNY’s Hispanic Leadership Institute has seen 71 fellows graduate since its establishment. The program provides rigorous executive training and a network to aid growth in leadership positions.

“To foster a truly diverse and welcoming environment at SUNY, we must ensure that diverse voices are represented, heard and celebrated at every level of our system," said King. "The Hispanic Leadership Institute has helped 71 individuals committed to inclusivity and excellence become leaders at their respective institutions.”

Peter Igarashi, MD, Knapp Dean of the Renaissance School of Medicine expressed his delight over Gomes’ selection: “She is a brilliant and dedicated neonatologist.” Carolyn Milana from RSOM’s Department of Pediatrics also praised Gomes' achievement as well-deserved.

HLI offers a nine-month experience designed to enhance higher education leadership skills through training sessions, webinars, personal assessments, networking opportunities with national leaders, and mentorship programs. It serves as a resource for developing Hispanic leaders across New York State's university system.