Women of Influence
Judith Mysliborski, M.D., B.S.’69
Making a Difference
By Carol Olechowski
In the 1960s, Judith Mysliborski remembers, “women believed we could do anything we wanted to do, and we would make a difference.” She adds, “I still believe that.”
The institution then known as SUNY Albany reinforced that belief. Intending to teach, Mysliborski focused on math but changed her major to chemistry to prepare for medical studies at Indiana University. The Long Island native “had a great time” competing on Albany’s tennis and women’s basketball teams.
“I feel indebted to the University for the fine education I received,” says Mysliborski. “It was a stepping stone to my career. I have real pride in the University – pride, awareness and a sense of giving back through ‘time, talent and treasure.’”
Mysliborski has generously shared all three with UAlbany. Throughout her years as a partner with Capital District Dermatology Associates, a busy practice in Albany, she remained active with her alma mater, serving as president of the Alumni Association, University at Albany Foundation Board director, Annual Fund national chair, and in a host of other capacities. In retirement, Mysliborski – a recipient of both the University Council’s Distinguished Service Medal (1986) and the Alumni Association’s Excellence in Service Award (1989) – continues her service to UAlbany.
Years ago, she endorsed the founding of the UAlbany women’s golf team, then underscored her enthusiasm by creating The Mysliborski Women’s Golf Scholarship. Under the leadership of coach Colleen Cashman-McSween and her predecessor, founding coach (and former UAlbany men’s basketball coach) Richard “Doc” Sauers, “the team has been immensely successful,” observes Mysliborski, an avid golfer. “Our student athletes share their special talents with the University. It’s my privilege to help them to get an education.”
As a student, Mysliborski was “proud and humbled” to receive the University’s Ada Craig Walker Award, established in 1940 by William James Craig in memory of his mother, a member of the Normal School’s Class of 1871. The award, presented to a senior woman whose academic excellence and service exemplify the University’s ideals, “enhanced my credentials for medical school. It demonstrated that the University recognized I was serious about my studies and my career aims,” notes Mysliborski.
She maintains close friendships with former women athletes from the University. A few years ago, at her Voorheesville, N.Y., home, 15 of them attended an informal reunion that included an impromptu basketball game and a call to former basketball coach Bobbie Jordan. “We had the greatest visit,” Mysliborski recalls. Jordan passed away shortly thereafter, but “her family told me she cherished that call.”
UAlbany, adds Mysliborski, “was about a great education, making lasting friendships and creating fond memories. It’s fun giving back, and a pleasure to do so.”
