Dr. Raja S. Gopalan presents a check to NCCF Executive Director Diane Hannum to create a scholarship for registered nursing education.

The “Dr. Raja S. Gopalan Registered Nursing Scholarship” was formally established with the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation during Dr. Gopalan's recent retirement party at Shorewood Country Club. Dr. Gopalan has generously endowed the scholarship for employees of Brooks Memorial and Lake Shore Hospitals who desire to earn their Registered Nursing degrees.

Family members of employees are also eligible to apply. The first scholarship will be awarded in 2012. Those interested in applying must complete an application form, write an essay and submit two letters of recommendation. Recipients will be selected based on their motivation, work ethic and financial need.

Those intending to continue their careers at Brooks Memorial or Lake Shore Hospital will receive priority.

For complete information on the scholarship, including a copy of the application, contact the Human Resources Department at either of the hospitals.

Dr. Raja S. Gopalan retired on June 1 of this year, after a career spanning over 40 years. As a highly respected surgeon, he was the first to practice new surgical procedures, including the staple technique, endoscopic surgery and the insertion of pacemakers. He used shunts for vascular surgery earlier than others in the field. His skill as a surgeon is evidenced by the fact that he never faced a malpractice suit, which is unusual in particular for a surgeon

“Dr. Gopalan’s clinical skill, compassion, and generous spirit have left a lasting and positive impression on every life that he has touched during his 40 plus years of practice. His example serves as equal inspiration to those of us who aspire to be better health professionals and to those of us who aspire to be better human beings” states Jonathan Lawrence, CEO of the Lake Erie Regional Health System.

A modest man, Dr. Gopalan, (fondly referred to as “Dr. Gopi” by many), is well liked and highly respected by doctors, patients and hospital staff. According to Sallie Piazza, “Dr. Gopolan is kind considerate man, has a great sense of humor and truly loved his profession and career. He has a practical approach, loved teaching and was a wonderful mentor.”

Since retirement, Dr. Gopalan has been focusing on his hobbies, in particular golf, tennis and reading. He and his wife Sandy have two daughters and five grandchildren.