Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute Announces Board, Staff Appointments

Hauptman-Woodward Medical Research Institute (HWI), an international leader in structural biology, recently announced new appointments to the Institute’s board of directors and professional staff. Samuel J. Russo, a partner at Lorraine Capital, has been elected to serve a three-year term on the HWI board of directors. In addition, Lisa A. LaTrovato has joined HWI as director of development.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sam and Lisa to HWI and look forward to utilizing their unique talents to further not only the work and strategic vision of the Institute, but also the understanding of and support for HWI in our community,” said John G. Horn, Chair of the HWI Board of Directors. “The groundbreaking work being undertaken by HWI scientists on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus every day continues to place Buffalo and Western New York on the vanguard of advancements in structural biology. Through the work of our dedicated board and the incredible team of professionals at HWI, we will continue to make important strides in actualizing the potential Herb Hauptman envisioned more than 60 years ago.”

Russo is an investor, entrepreneur, business executive and operator with extensive experience in a wide array of businesses and industries. As a partner at Lorraine Capital, he helps lead the private investment firm’s efforts to identify, acquire, operate and grow successful businesses throughout the Northeast, with a focus on Upstate New York. A Certified Public Accountant, Russo has a strong track record as a founder and partner in several businesses, holding companies, and consulting companies. In addition to his role with HWI, Russo is an active supporter of several community organizations. In 2016, he received the 40 Under 40 award from Buffalo Business First in recognition of his professional accomplishments and dedication to the community.

LaTrovato is an experienced fundraiser and event organizer who has worked in the non-profit and government sectors. She will lead HWI’s fundraising, donor cultivation, donor relations, and event coordination efforts. LaTrovato was most recently senior development associate at the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Buffalo, where she was responsible for gift cultivation, fundraising, and event planning and coordination to support the John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. She previously served as an adjunct professor at D’Youville College and was a Congressional aide to Congresswoman Louise Slaughter.