Yan Leyfman, Medical Correspondent at OncLive, Freelance, shared on LinkedIn:
“A few weeks ago, I had the extraordinary honor of being recognized as one of Stony Brook University’s 40 Under 40 honorees – an elite cohort of the <1% of the institutions graduates.
To be recognized alongside such an exceptional group of individuals who are advancing science, transforming industries, and making an impact around the world is both humbling and inspiring.
I am deeply grateful for this recognition of my contributions to medicine, research, and global medical education.
But behind every accomplishment are the people whose sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering belief made it possible.
My journey began thousands of miles away, in Belarus, in the shadow of the Chernobyl disaster.
I could never have imagined the opportunities that awaited me. But my parents envisioned a future for me that I could not yet envision for myself.
They sacrificed everything, left behind the lives they knew, and came to this country so that I could pursue opportunities they never had.
They gave me the chance to live the American Dream and taught me that its greatest reward is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.
Mom and Dad, this recognition belongs to you. Every milestone I reach is a reflection of your sacrifices, unconditional love, and unwavering belief in me.
No award could ever adequately express my gratitude. I hope to spend my life making you proud and honoring everything you have done for me.
I am equally grateful to Stony Brook University, which believed in my potential, invested in my growth, and helped lay the foundation for my career.
To my mentors, colleagues, friends, and everyone who has supported me along the way:
Thank you.
I am especially grateful to those who stood beside me not only during moments of triumph, but also through hardship and uncertainty. Your belief in me has meant more than you may ever realize.
I believe the true measure of success is not the recognition we receive, but the opportunities we create for others.
I hope to honor those who invested in me by paying that generosity forward, opening doors, and empowering the next generation.
Congratulations to my fellow 40 Under Forty honorees!
It is a privilege to share this recognition with such an extraordinary group.
I will never forget where I came from or the people who helped me get here.
This milestone is not a destination, but a reminder of how much more there is to accomplish.
To my parents, my mentors, and everyone who believed in me: this recognition is as much yours as it is mine.
The best is yet to come.”
You can also read: Top Growing Medical Universities in the Wold: 2026 Edition by BIGR
