Remembering Emily Fisher Landau, Longtime Einstein Supporter
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of longtime friend, board member, and benefactor, Emily Fisher Landau.
![Emily Fisher Landau, 1921 to 2023]()
Emily’s steadfast commitment to Einstein is reflected in her decade of service on the College of Medicine’s board of overseers from 1999 to 2009, and subsequent appointment as an honorary member. She was also a pioneering member of Einstein’s National Women’s Division, lending her time and talent as a member of its board and executive committee. In 2000, the division named her “Woman of the Milennium” for her devotion to mission, her efforts made on behalf of those in need, and her impact on cultural life. Emily was also an enthusiastic supporter of our Spirit of Achievement annual luncheons.
Among her many contributions, Emily funded the establishment of the Fisher Landau Center for the Treatment of Learning Disabilities at Einstein in 1997 – with Ruth Gottesman, Ed.D., serving as founding director. Its mission is to ensure that those with learning difficulties receive support and adequate resources. At the time she noted, “Learning disabilities can make life very difficult, yet they are often overlooked or misdiagnosed…it was very important to me that adults be included in the program.”
In recalling Emily concern for those with learning disabilities and her desire to help, Allen M. Spiegel, M.D., dean emeritus of Einstein, said, “She showed tremendous courage in recognizing, understanding, and overcoming her own learning difficulties, and her very generous support for our efforts has improved the lives of many others—both children and adults—who face similar problems.”
The Center continues this important work as part of Montefiore Einstein’s Children’s Evaluation & Rehabilitation Center (CERC), offering educational, psychological, social, medical, and vocational assistance to those with learning disabilities of all ages, from preschool children to adults.
“Emily Fisher Landau is one of the most extraordinary people I’ve ever met,” said Dr. Gottesman, who is now chair of the Einstein Board. “Einstein couldn’t have asked for a better partner in its work with people with learning disabilities.”
Emily is quoted as saying “Never stop learning, never stop looking,” and this is a testament to her extraordinary life. Her generosity is also reflected in her passion and support of the arts. This included donating several hundred works to the Whitney Museum of American Art, where she served as a trustee for decades, and gifting a series of professional paintings of her beloved cat “Mishoo” for children participating in CERC programs to enjoy.
Mrs. Fisher Landau was a widow to Martin Fisher, a principal in the real estate firm Fisher Brothers, and to Sheldon Landau, a clothing manufacturer. She was 102.
Emily’s spirit will live on at Montefiore Einstein and she will be missed.
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Posted on: Thursday, June 15, 2023