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Zeit Society at the Ϲ

A Legacy of Leadership and Generosity

Zeit Society brings together Ϲ alumni whose philanthropy strengthens our missions and empowers the next generation of health professionals. Rooted in shared values of leadership, loyalty, service, initiative, and compassion, members make a measurable difference – supporting scholarships, mentoring emerging leaders, and sustaining a culture of giving that shapes generations. Together, they form a community of alumni who champion student achievement and invest in the success of tomorrow’s health leaders.

This tradition reflects the enduring legacy of Dr. Walter Zeit, whose lifelong dedication to academic excellence, mentorship, and service inspired nearly 50 years of alumni generosity. Since the earliest scholarships and awards established in his honor, alumni have carried forward his belief in elevating students and opening doors for those who will follow.

Today, Zeit Society ensures that Dr. Zeit’s principles remain a guiding force at Ϲ – empowering outstanding students, fostering meaningful connections, and celebrating the spirit of giving that continues to define our alumni community.

I was supported. I know I could not have made it through medical school without that support. So, I feel it’s very important for me to turn around and pay it forward. This is something we all should practice as alumni.

Betty Pace, MD ’81, GME ‘84

A Community United in Purpose, Leadership, and Generosity

Zeit Society empowers students at every stage of their education by supporting scholarships, recognition, and meaningful alumni connections. Together, these opportunities strengthen academic success, build community, and inspire future generations.

Marie E. Zeit Scholarship

Awarded annually to first-year students, the Marie E. Zeit Scholarship recognizes individuals who embody leadership, loyalty, service, initiative, and compassion – the core values that shaped Dr. Zeit’s legacy. Recipients participate in engagement opportunities with alumni and fellow awardees throughout their educational journey at Ϲ, building mentorship networks and a shared sense of community.

Walter Zeit Fellowship Awards

Each year, graduating students of exceptional promise are selected to receive the Walter Zeit Leadership Award and the Founding Deans Awards which has a monetary component. These honors celebrate students whose integrity, service, and commitment to others distinguish them as future leaders in their respective field. Upon graduation, awardees become Zeit Society Laureates – joining a tradition of alumni who support and inspire the next generation.

How Can I Help?

If you’d like to contribute to the above funds, please click the link below and check the box next to “Specify a program for this gift to support.” Select “Healthcare Education & Scholarships” then select “Other.” in the Comments Box, type “Marie E. Zeit Scholarship” or “Walter Zeit Award Endowment.”

We thank you for your support!

Donate Now

Zeit Society Member Benefits

For alumni whose lifetime giving totals $10,000–$49,999, membership includes meaningful opportunities to stay engaged and connected:

  • Invitations to select Ϲ events
  • Special engagement opportunities during Alumni Weekend
  • Recognition for leading support of the Marie E. Zeit Scholarship
  • An annual update featuring award recipients and student stories
  • Access to Ϲ’s nationwide alumni network
  • A distinctive Zeit Society ribbon at events

Zeit Society Emerald Leader Benefits

Alumni whose lifetime giving totals $50,000–$249,999 receive all Zeit Society member benefits, plus elevated recognition and deeper opportunities for leadership:

  • Priority access at select Ϲ events
  • Invitation to the annual celebration
  • Recognition on the Ϲ donor wall
  • Mentorship opportunities with Zeit student awardees
  • A yearly touchpoint with the Alumni Association Executive Director
  • Priority consideration for Alumni Association Board and Reunion Committee seats
  • A distinctive Emerald Leader ribbon at events
*Benefits are subject to change and will continue to evolve based on the needs of our giving society members.

Where Our Community Comes Together

Zeit Society members enjoy exclusive access to Ϲ alumni events throughout the year – opportunities that strengthen connection, celebrate alumni leadership, and honor the students whose journeys you help shape.

View Ϲ alumni events

Awards Presented by the Zeit Society

Each year, we recognize the impact of Zeit Society philanthropy through several awards that are generously funded by our alumni.

Recipients are students who exemplify the values that Dr. Walter Zeit instilled: leadership, loyalty, service, initiative, and compassion. Their achievements reflect the very spirit of the alumni community that supports them.

Student award recipients are celebrated each year at the private Next and Notable Awards Night event.

Learn more about the awards and past recipients

The Walter Zeit Leadership Award

Presented to a graduating student who has consistently displayed commitment to Ϲ throughout their time.

Marie E. Zeit Scholarship

Presented to an incoming student who exemplifies the five Zeit values.

Founding Deans Awards

These awards, named after the founding deans of each campus, recognize graduating students who have made outstanding contributions to the individual campuses the student attends.

Contact Us

Please contact us with any questions about the Zeit Society.

Office of Institutional Advancement

(414) 955-4700