Soma Weiss (1898–1942) was a Hungarian-born American physician known for his significant contributions to the field of medicine. Born in Bistriţa, Transylvania, he immigrated to the United States after World War I and qualified in medicine in 1923. Weiss made a mark in the medical world, particularly at Harvard Medical School, where he became physician-in-chief at Peter Bent Brigham Hospital and Hersey Professor of the Theory and Practice of Physic. His extensive research on cardiovascular diseases and pharmacology led to the publication of over 200 peer-reviewed articles. Tragically, Weiss passed away suddenly at the age of 43 due to a ruptured intracranial aneurysm. Despite his untimely death, his legacy lives on through the annual Soma Weiss Student Research Day and his pivotal medical achievements, including the description of carotid sinus hypersensitivity syndrome and the application of in-vivo circulating blood radioactive tracers. Weiss's impact on the medical community continues to be celebrated and recognized through various awards and scholarships that bear his name.

Soma Orlai Petrich, also known as Soma Orlay-Petrich, was a renowned Hungarian painter celebrated for his historical paintings and portraits. Born on October 22, 1822, in Mezőberény and passing away on June 5, 1880, in Budapest, Petrich's artistic journey was marked by exceptional talent and dedication.Petrich's upbringing in the highland border town of Mezőberény, with a Serbian father and Hungarian mother, laid the foundation for his artistic pursuits. His early education in Drávaszarvas, Croatia, and Sopron was followed by a law degree from Pápa Reformed College. It was during his time at the college that he studied under his second cousin, the esteemed poet Sándor Petőfi, and discovered his passion for painting.His artistic odyssey took him to various cities, including Vienna, Munich, Rome, and Paris, where he honed his skills under the guidance of renowned mentors. Notably, his painting "The Discovery of Louis II of Hungary's Body" garnered significant acclaim and inspired others to explore the same subject matter.Aside from his historical masterpieces, Petrich excelled as a portraitist, establishing himself as a sought-after artist in Debrecen and Vienna before eventually settling in Pest. Despite battling seizures throughout his life, he continued to produce remarkable works, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of art.Soma Orlai Petrich