The Lanier Law Firm remembers David Rosner, PhD, a renowned public health historian and Professor Emeritus at Columbia University, who passed away on May 24, 2026. Dr. Rosner’s work helped bring greater attention to the consequences of occupational and environmental exposures, including asbestos. His scholarship and testimony also contributed to asbestos litigation and efforts to hold companies accountable for preventable harm.
Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Rosner co-founded the Center for the History and Ethics of Public Health and Toxic Docs, wrote and edited multiple books on public health and industrial hazards, and remained active in teaching and advocacy throughout his career.
Darron E. Berquist, Managing Attorney, Asbestos Litigation, at The Lanier Law Firm, reflected on Dr. Rosner’s influence and commitment to those affected by industrial exposures:
“David Rosner gave voice to the voiceless: workers whose suffering was hidden by corporate deception. His scholarship was more than academic; it was a moral obligation carried out with intellectual rigor. He showed the world that these weren’t unavoidable tragedies, but preventable harms that could have been avoided. His legacy will continue to guide our work on behalf of those harmed by industrial negligence.”
The Lanier Law Firm extends its heartfelt condolences to Dr. Rosner’s family and loved ones.