Arthur Gerard DeVoe

DeVOE--Arthur Gerard, M.D. Our beloved and respected colleague, passed away on September 19 in Gladwyne, PA at the age of 98. This distinguished academic ophthalmologist led the Department of Ophthalmology, Columbia University and Edward Harkness Eye Institute as Chairman from 1959-1974. He was a graduate of Yale University, where he was captain of the track team, and Cornell University Medical College. Prior to heading to Columbia, he was Chairman and Professor of Ophthalmology at NYU Medical Center. A gifted and compassionate physician and surgeon, he was world-renowned for his expertise in corneal and cataract surgery. With Hernando Cardona, MD, he pioneered the development of the keratoprosthesis for advanced corneal diseases. He recognized the importance of basic science research and the potential for understanding eye disorders and developing new treatments by founding the Eye Research building and recruiting world-class scientists at Columbia. He played major leadership roles in the American Board of Ophthalmology (chairman), American Ophthalmological Society, American College of Surgeons, Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology, and the Heed Foundation. He also served on many NIH committees. He leaves a great legacy of professionalism, integrity, and clinical and scholarly excellence that has served and will continue to set high standards for the Institute. Deepest condolences to his children, Gerard, David and Ralph, and his five grandchildren. We will miss him dearly. Stanley Chang, M.D., Chair Dept. of Ophthalmology Columbia University Medical Center NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital