Assembly Resolution No. 874

BY: M. of A. Tapia

RECOGNIZING Dr. Rafael A. Lantigua's exceptional
medical career and contributions to New York in
light of his recent honor by the Dominican President
Luis Abinader Corona

WHEREAS, The State of New York proudly acknowledges and honors
individuals whose remarkable achievements and contributions have
significantly enriched both local and global communities; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Rafael A. Lantigua, an eminent physician and educator,
has been distinguished as the most celebrated Dominican doctor in New
York by Dominican President Luis Abinader, a testament to his
extraordinary career and impact; and

WHEREAS, This prestigious accolade was highlighted during an
official ceremony on December 17, 2023, in Santo Domingo, where a bust
of Dr. Lantigua was unveiled at the inauguration of the Boulevard of
the Dominican Abroad, symbolizing his profound influence and respect in
the medical community; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Lantigua's journey, beginning with his medical degree
from the Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo and subsequent migration
to New York, has been marked by dedication, compassion, and excellence
in the field of medicine; and

WHEREAS, Serving as a Professor of Medicine and Associate Dean for
Community Service at Columbia University, Dr. Lantigua has played a
pivotal role in advancing medical education, healthcare access, and
research, particularly benefiting minority populations; and

WHEREAS, His significant contributions to medical research and
public health are evident in his authorship of over 100 medical
articles, with a focus on aging and Alzheimer's disease among Latino
populations, demonstrating his commitment to addressing key health
disparities; and

WHEREAS, Dr. Lantigua's extensive involvement in various community
service organizations, including the Dominican Medical Society, the
Puerto Rican Legal Defense Fund, and the Latino Commission on AIDS,
highlights his deep commitment to community advocacy and support; and

WHEREAS, His numerous honors, including the Arnold Gold Award in
Humanism, the Ewig Clinical Scholar Award, Grand Marshall of the
Dominican Parade, and the Prestigious Premio Internacional al Emigrante
Dominicano Sr. Oscar De La Renta, reflect his exceptional service and
contributions, particularly to the Dominican community in New York; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pauses in its deliberations to
recognize Dr. Rafael A. Lantigua for his outstanding achievements in
medicine, his enduring dedication to community service, and his
significant role as an influential leader in New York and the Dominican

community, as recently honored by Dominican President Luis Abinader; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Dr. Rafael A. Lantigua.