Distinguished Alumnus 2019: Dr. Debu Tripathy '77

Dr. Tripathy’s clinical research focuses on the evaluation and development of novel therapeutics in breast cancer, specifically growth factor receptor pathway targeting as well as biomarkers that predict sensitivity and resistance. He oversees a group of physicians and scientists dedicated to discovering mechanisms of breast cancer cell growth and metastases, as well as biological pathways that drive the evolution of resistance. These findings are then translated into novel therapeutics that include targeted therapies, immunotherapy and endocrine treatments, and newer molecular/DNA-based diagnostics.

Dr. Tripathy’s department is also active in the education of medical students, residents, and fellows, and in mentoring the next generation of physician-scientists. He has published numerous original laboratory and clinical research articles in the area of breast cancer, and his work has led to the approval of newer targeted drugs against breast cancer.

“We are deeply proud that one of the leading minds in breast cancer treatment and research worldwide is a New Orleans native and a Newman graduate,” said Newman Head of School Dale M. Smith. “Science education has been a hallmark of the Newman experience for many decades, and with the recent construction of the Rupa and Tarun Jolly Science and Technology Building, students today are conducting their own biomedical research with a broad range of potential applications. Dr. Tripathy’s successes in the field of science and medicine – and his dedication to helping others through his intellectual gifts – are an inspiration for all Newman students.”

Dr. Tripathy received a degree in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and graduated from the Duke University School of Medicine, where he also completed an internal medicine residency. Following his time at Duke, Tripathy completed a Hematology/Oncology fellowship at the University of California at San Francisco. He serves on several editorial boards, study sections, and societies, and is Editor-in-Chief of CURE Magazine. He has previously served as the President of the American Society of Breast Disease and the Society of Integrative Oncology.

About the Distinguished Alumnus/a Award
The Distinguished Alumnus/a Award is given each year to graduates who have made significant contributions in their specific fields of endeavor and taken a vigorous civic leadership role, bringing honor to the School through their achievements, both professionally and in the community. This award is the highest honor Newman bestows on its alumni. Last year’s recipient was award-winning restaurateur and co-proprieter of Commander's Palace, Ti Adelaide Martin '78.