Pioneering Dominican Physicians and Medical Innovators: A Documentary Double Feature

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the CUNY Dominican Studies Institute will present Pioneering Dominican Physicians and Medical Innovators: A Documentary Double Feature, honoring the extraordinary lives and legacies of two groundbreaking Dominican physicians: Dr. Evangelina Rodríguez and Dr. Juan Manuel Taveras.

The program will feature two short documentaries highlighting their pioneering contributions to medicine. Dr. Evangelina Rodríguez, the first female physician of the Dominican Republic, was a trailblazing advocate for women’s health, maternal and infant care, sexual education, and preventive medicine. Her documentary is approximately 19 minutes. Dr. Juan Manuel Taveras, widely recognized as the father of modern neuroradiology, helped establish neuroradiology as a distinct medical specialty. His documentary is approximately 15 minutes.

Following the screenings, the program will include a conversation with medical professionals reflecting on the legacies of Dr. Rodríguez and Dr. Taveras and the significance of Dominican representation, innovation, and leadership in medicine.

The event is presented as part of the CUNY Cultural and Historical Legacy Initiative (CHLI), which brings important stories from Dominican history and culture to students and the broader community.

Special recognition and appreciation to U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and Representative Adriano Espaillat, for their tremendous support in funding this cultural initiative that will benefit youth and families for generations.