Jim and Ellen Marcus

Leaving his legacy to care for his hospital’s future

The Lenox Hill Hospital clock was erected and dedicated to the Hospital in Jim’s honor.

Jim Marcus was a fixture in New York City philanthropy throughout his life. After a successful career at Goldman Sachs, Mr. Marcus dedicated his time to the arts and sought out meaningful volunteer opportunities in health care. He spent time during his retirement volunteering with AIDS patients at Northwell’s Lenox Hill Hospital and became invested in the Hospital’s continued success. He led Lenox Hill Hospital’s board of trustees from 1993 until 2003 and served as an honorary trustee for Northwell Health. Mr. Marcus’ legacy as a loyal supporter and volunteer leader was further solidified when he chose to include Lenox Hill Hospital in his will.

When Mr. Marcus passed away in 2015, Ellen, his wife of more than 40 years, continued their tradition of volunteerism and giving. She is a dedicated member of the Lenox Hill Hospital Auxiliary and a longstanding hospital volunteer, dedicating herself to countless fundraising events — including chairing the annual Autumn Ball. Mrs. Marcus also took on the responsibility of thoughtfully allocating her husband’s bequest within the Hospital. His gift was split between two crucial areas of the Hospital: critical care and nursing — both of which were meaningful to the Marcuses, particularly at the end of Mr. Marcus’ life.

The James S. Marcus Department of Medicine Endowment will help advance critical care and provide sustainability for the Department of Medicine. Through Mr. Marcus’ generosity, the department will have the necessary funds to acquire cutting-edge equipment and training for physicians for generations to come.

The gift also allows Lenox Hill Hospital to secure the necessary mentorship and guidance to embark on the “Journey to Excellence” in its quest to become a Magnet®-designated hospital through the internationally renowned American Nurses Credentialing Center. Irene Macyk, chief nursing officer, feels fortunate to be a benefactor of the Marcuses’ generous support: “This gift affords us the opportunity to mature our professional nurse practice. This accreditation will solidify our nurses as vital decision makers at Lenox Hill Hospital.”

Mrs. Marcus fondly recalls how much her husband “cared for the future of his local hospital.” The Marcuses spent decades supporting Lenox Hill Hospital by donating their time, energy and wealth. Mr. Marcus’ legacy gift continues that support in perpetuity and ensures that “his” hospital is cared for beyond his lifetime.