UAG School of Medicine Celebrates Dr. Marianne LaBarbera’s Remarkable Achievements
UAG alumni Dr. Marianne LaBarbera will be honored for her exceptional contributions to the field of medicine at the RUMC gala in New York.
By: UAG School of Medicine
25/Sep/2023
The Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG) School of Medicine proudly congratulates one of its distinguished alumni, Dr. Marianne LaBarbera, on her exceptional contributions to the field of medicine and her unwavering support for the Richmond University Medical Center (RUMC). Dr. LaBarbera's remarkable achievements and dedication to healthcare have earned her well-deserved recognition at the 17th annual RUMC gala.
On November 4th, 2023, in Nicotra’s Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn, Bloomfield, two outstanding community leaders will be honored at the gala. Gina Gutzeit, a finance executive, and Dr. Marianne LaBarbera, a family physician, will receive accolades for their continuous support of RUMC as it undergoes its most comprehensive transformation in its 120-year history.
Daniel J. Messina, President, and Chief Executive Officer of RUMC spoke highly of the exceptional contributions made by both honorees. He emphasized that their passion, professionalism, and generosity have played a pivotal role in lifting RUMC to new heights.
A Brief Look at Dr. Marianne LaBarbera's Achievements Dr. Marianne LaBarbera, a family physician practicing in Sunnyside, has earned recognition not only for her dedicated medical practice but also for her significant leadership roles at RUMC. Notably, she became the first woman in the hospital's 120-year history to serve as the president of the medical staff, a position she held from 2018 to 2020.
Her journey in medicine began with a medical degree from Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, which laid the foundation for her illustrious career. She then embarked on clinical clerkships and completed part of her postgraduate clinical training at what was then known as St. Vincent’s Medical Center, during the years 1983 to 1984.
Dr. LaBarbera's commitment to family medicine led her to complete her family medicine residency at Community Hospital at Glen Cove, Long Island. In 1989, she returned to RUMC as a member of the medical staff, coincidentally, the same year she earned her certification in family medicine.
For 26 years, Dr. LaBarbera maintained a successful solo family practice. In 2017, she joined the Richmond Health Network, where she was instrumental in establishing RUMC’s Post-COVID-19 Care Center, situated on the hospital's West Brighton campus. Medical service appears to run in the LaBarbera family, as her mother, Cathy, served as a nurse and administrator at RUMC for over 40 years, showcasing their strong connection to the institution. Dr. LaBarbera's journey in healthcare began at the former St. Vincent’s as a unit clerk in the Emergency Room before pursuing her medical education.
In addition to her medical achievements, Dr. LaBarbera has been an active member of the New York State Academy of Family Physicians since 1994, serving as its president from 2005 to 2006. She has represented over 4,500 family physicians throughout New York State. She also served as a delegate representing New York State family physicians at the American Academy of Family Physicians from 2006 to 2016. Her commitment extended to various community organizations, including the boards of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, the Staten Island Historical Society, and the Advisory Board of St. Vincent’s Medical Center.
Married to retired Justice Philip G. Minardo, Dr. LaBarbera is a proud mother to one son, Steven Fuentes, and three stepsons, John, Philip Jr., and Brian. She is also a doting grandmother to six grandchildren.
Reflecting on her journey, Dr. LaBarbera expressed her gratitude for the support she has received throughout her many years at RUMC. She acknowledged the profound changes in the practice of medicine, driven by technology and medical advancements, and emphasized the enduring dedication, professionalism, and compassion of the medical staff, nurses, and the hospital's administration.
The UAG School of Medicine extends its heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Marianne LaBarbera on her well-deserved recognition at the 17th annual RUMC gala. Her achievements serve as an inspiration to the medical community and a testament to the outstanding education provided by Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara. We are proud to call her one of our own.
