From Student Support to Endowed Legacy

Allen J. Sedman, PhD ’73, MD ’78, and Aileen B. Sedman, MD ’78, have spent their lives utilizing the knowledge imparted by the University of Michigan. In turn, they have expressed their gratitude through gifts bestowed to the College of Pharmacy and the Department of Pediatrics. 

Allen Sedman arrived at U-M at a time when pharmacokinetics was still an emerging science. He was supported by research assistant stipends and faculty mentorship that helped him build the foundation for a career spanning pharmaceutical chemistry, medical training and drug development in the pharmaceutical industry. He published approximately 100 research papers during his career. 

Aileen Sedman, a pediatric nephrologist and Professor Emerita of Pediatric Nephrology and Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases at the Medical School, trained at the University of Michigan Medical School. While on the faculty, she went on to care for children and advance the field of pediatric nephrology. She made seminal discoveries concerning aluminum toxicity in children and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor fetopathy. She published approximately 80 research papers during her career. 

Together, they have carried their University of Michigan spirit far beyond campus walls. For decades, they have supported programs across the University of Michigan. Their generosity reflects both deep gratitude and a lasting belief in the power of public education and discovery.

Now, through their gift, the Sedmans are establishing the Allen J. Sedman Research Professorship at the College of Pharmacy. The professorship will ensure that the same spirit of early-stage scientific curiosity that shaped Allen’s own path continues to support the next generation of researchers.

“Our decision to establish the professorship is based on our profound gratitude to the University of Michigan for the education and financial support that we received,” Sedman said. “I hope that this professorship will continue to support the research environment of the College of Pharmacy and its deserving faculty.”