Dr. Morris Shapiro papers

Dr. Morris Shapiro was born in Rochester, New York on October 21, 1913. After graduating from East High School, Shapiro completed his B.A. and M.S. degrees at the University of Rochester, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. Shapiro then successfully pursued an M.D. at the Jefferson Medical College. He completed his residency at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, where he met his wife, Miriam, a practicing nurse. At the start of World War II, both Dr. and Mrs. Shapiro volunteered and served for four years in Africa and Italy. They participated in the invasion of Italy and received the Africa and Italian Campaign Ribbons, four battle stars, and the Invasion Arrowhead for their efforts.

Once they returned, they settled in Rochester, where Dr. Shapiro worked at Rochester General, Genesee and Strong Memorial Hospitals. Shapiro served as a general surgeon in the University of Rochester Medical Center Department of Surgery until 1983. He then continued his involved with the medical center by teaching in the medical school, receiving the Gold Medal Teaching Award.

Shapiro founded and directed the Center for Early Detection of Breast Cancer at Strong Memorial Hospital, which for the first time provided underserved women with free examinations and mammography.

Shapiro served the Rochester community as a member of the Board of Directors of the United Way. He also served as President of the Jewish Federation and the Jewish Home.

Dr. Morris Shapiro and his wife, Miriam had two daughters.