Groundbreaking Newark Surgeon In Running For NJ Hall Of Fame

NEWARK, NJ — A “groundbreaking cardiac surgeon” who practiced medicine for more than 60 years at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center is in the running for a spot in the New Jersey Hall of Fame.

As part of its 2018 class of candidates, the hall is considering Victor Parsonnet, 94, the former Director of Surgery and Surgical Research at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.

Parsonnet performed the first heart transplants and kidney transplants in New Jersey, and also implanted the first permanent pacemakers in New Jersey and the first permanent transvenous pacemakers worldwide, according to a statement from Beth Israel Medical Center.

In addition to his many clinical accomplishments, Parsonnet is an avid lover of the performing arts and served as chairman of the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra for 17 years. He was an early supporter of the creation of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, and is a pianist and avid tennis player, hospital administrators said. He attended Weequahic High School.

The voting period is open until December 15, and can be seen online here.

“A pioneer is one who ventures into unexplored areas with innovative ideas,” said Barry Ostrowsky, president and CEO of RWJBarnabas Health. “Certainly, Dr. Victor Parsonnet, creator of so many frontline medical procedures that are regularly performed in our facilities today, is a pioneer and well deserving of the recognition and tribute of being named to the 2018 New Jersey Hall of Fame.”

The community is “forever indebted to Dr. Victor Parsonnet for his dedication to our patients,” said Darrell Terry, president and CEO of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of New Jersey.

“He paved the way for our current success as one of the most comprehensive cardiac programs in the country,” Terry said.

• See related article: Newark Hospital On Pace To Perform 1000th Heart Transplant

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Photo: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center