On a bright Thursday afternoon, sunlight filtered through the windows of the Seebohm conference room in the Eckstein Medical Research Building, casting a warm glow over a gathering of friends and colleagues who had come together to honor Isabella Grumbach, MD, PhD. Grumbach had served as the interim chair and department executive officer of the Department of Internal Medicine for nearly three years—a tenure marked by her unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and a deep commitment to her team.

As guests arrived, the air was filled with a sense of appreciation and camaraderie, reminiscent of the many shared experiences and milestones that had defined Grumbach’s time in the role. Upi Singh, MD, the newly appointed chair and DEO, hosted the open house with an invitation to celebrate Grumbach’s enduring contributions. It was not a formal ceremony but a gathering that allowed people to share their stories, laughter, and gratitude, each person bringing a unique perspective on the legacy she leaves behind.

Over the course of a couple hours, guests enjoyed light snacks, mingling and reminiscing with one another, their conversations flowing with memories and heartfelt words. In place of a guest book, a special matting lay on a nearby table, inviting everyone to leave their signatures and personal messages. These inscriptions would frame a commemorative collection of photos capturing Grumbach’s journey—a gift that would forever hold the essence of her impact, leadership, and the friendships she forged along the way. It was a small token of gratitude for a woman who had given so much; a moment to pause and reflect on the impact she had left on the department and in the fond memories of those she had led.