In Memoriam Summer 2025

Myrtle Katzen (Jan. 28, 2025, 97)

Katzen played a pivotal role in advancing cancer research and treatment at the George Washington University. Katzen and her late husband, Cyrus Katzen, who passed away in 2009, generously supported a wide range of cancer initiatives at GW’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS). They established the Dr. Cyrus and Myrtle Katzen Cancer Research Center and later endowed the Dr. Cyrus Katzen Director of the GW Cancer Center, now held by Dr. Julie Bauman. These investments further GW’s ability to recruit top scholars in the field and facilitate the development of new methods of treating cancer.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Myrtle Katzen, whose generosity and vision have left an indelible mark on the GW Cancer Center,” said Dr. Bauman. “The Katzen family’s unwavering commitment to advancing cancer research and patient care has transformed countless lives, and Myrtle and Cyrus’s legacy will continue to inspire our mission. We are profoundly grateful for their support and extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones."

With cancer placing a high burden on citizens in the District, the Katzen family’s generosity has widely affected our community, said Barbara Lee Bass, GW vice president for health affairs, dean of SMHS and the Walter A. Bloedorn Chair of Administrative Medicine. “The Katzens’ support makes it possible for patients to receive improved care and furthers knowledge in the search for cures,” said Bass. “Their funding supports Cancer Center initiatives, including pilot programs, which advance the scientific initiatives of the Population Sciences and Policy program, clinical research and patient support services.”

The Katzen family has close ties to GW. Six members have attended the university, four of them earning medical degrees. Dr. Cyrus Katzen’s son, Jay, B.A. ’67, M.D. ’72, is a former member of the GW Board of Trustees.

A talented artist who started painting as a girl in Washington, D.C., where she was born and raised, Myrtle Katzen was still working in her studio until two years ago. She studied art at the Abbott Art School, the Corcoran School (now part of GW’s Columbian College of Arts and Sciences) and American University. She worked as a fashion illustrator for Sears and the Hecht Co., and taught art at the Maret School. Many of her paintings are hanging on the walls in several area homes. She was a member of an artists’ organization, Group 93, most of whom studied at American University, where they also exhibited their works.

Through the Dr. Cyrus Katzen Foundation, Inc., the Katzen family has supported a wide range of causes related to the arts, health and social services.  

“I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know many members of this extraordinary family,” said Donna Arbide, vice president for development and alumni relations. “Through their meaningful work and their exceptional generosity, they have improved the lives of so many of our neighbors in D.C. and beyond.”  

Gisela Bialik Huberman, B.A. ’64, M.A. ’65, Ph.D. ’70 (Dec. 10, 2024, 82) was a linguist, lawyer, entrepreneur and philanthropist whose career spanned academia, law and the radio industry. After earning a Ph.D. in linguistics from GW, she became chair of the languages department at American University before pivoting to law, ultimately co-founding HVS Partners and owning 13 radio stations. Later, she served as president of the James Renwick Alliance in Washington, D.C., and was active with the Asolo Repertory Theatre in Sarasota, Fla. A lover of classical music, contemporary art and baseball, she is survived by her husband, Benjamin; sons, Jon and Martin; and five grandchildren.

Caroline Ann Zaino McCall, B.A. ’17 (Nov. 30, 2024, 29) worked as a paralegal at Fross, Zelnick, Lehrman & Zissu, where she was admired by colleagues for her professionalism and warmth. She passed away after an 11-month battle with cancer. She is remembered for her strength, kindness and deep love for her family. She is survived by her husband, Peter McCall, and their daughter, Mary. 

Peter Nintcheff, M.D. ’64 (March 21, 2024, 66) was a dedicated public servant who served for more than three decades as assistant U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. A proud Cleveland native, he was known for his deep commitment to justice, mentorship and community service. Nintcheff worked in private practice and as a Cuyahoga County assistant prosecutor before joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office. He was an active member of the Greek Orthodox Church and cherished spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Kathy; children, Maria and Nicholas; sister, Nikki; and many beloved extended family members. 

Theodore G. Pedas, J.D. ’57 (March 21, 2025, 93) was a film industry executive and philanthropist who played a key role in bringing foreign and independent films to American audiences. Alongside his brother, Jim, he co-founded Circle Theatres and Circle Films, the latter of which helped launch the careers of the Coen brothers by producing “Blood Simple.” He later served as president of Warner Bros. International Theatres. A devoted supporter of the arts and education, he contributed to numerous cultural and academic institutions. He is survived by his wife, Lea; children, George, Billy, Michele and their families; his brother, Jim; and many loving nieces and nephews. 

Bernard Reich (Feb. 23, 2025, 83) was a distinguished scholar of Middle Eastern politics and a professor at GW for over 50 years. As an expert on U.S.-Israel relations, he authored numerous books and articles that shaped the field. He served as chair of GW’s political science department and was a sought-after commentator on Middle Eastern affairs. He is survived by his wife, Madelyn; his children, Barry, Norman, Michael and Jennifer; and his grandchildren Andy, Benjamin, John, Sidney, Evan, Katie and Morgan. 

Larry Yip, M.D. ’71 (July 12, 2024, 79) was a longtime anesthesiologist who practiced for four decades in Orange County, Calif. Before medical school, he earned a zoology degree on a Latin scholarship from the University of Washington. He served in both the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Navy, attaining the rank of commander during the Vietnam War. He completed his residency at Massachusetts General Hospital. He enjoyed cooking, gardening, skiing and ballroom dancing. He is survived by his wife, Linda Shuck Yip; son, Benjamin; two sisters; and several nieces and nephews.