News & Media
Tribute to David Colman
Chair, Neuro Advisory Board
June 3, 2011
We have lost a friend, a colleague.
But he left us with a vision…and a mission.
Some eighteen months ago, the paths of David Colman and the Premier of Québec, Jean Charest, crossed during the events celebrating the Neuro’s 75th Anniversary. The chemistry was good between the two men.
David and the Premier exchanged emails on various subjects – they met privately shortly thereafter.
Another meeting had been scheduled for late spring, but was postponed due to Dr. Colman’s illness.
Amongst other things, they were to discuss the merits of setting up a Québec Science Award, to recognize and celebrate scientific achievements in Québec. And by doing so, raise the profile of and interest in science in Québec. This was David’s idea.
All it took was one brief encounter.
Last night a letter was delivered to my home and I was asked to share it with
you.
Message
from Premier Charest
Every time a visitor went in David Colman’s office – they came out mesmerized by his simplicity, warmth, knowledge, vision and passion for the Neuro and…his crumpled New England style chinos sitting atop his old deck shoes. The man was “one of a kind!”
His passion for the Neuro was infectious – and no “flu shots” was strong enough to prevent you from catching it – or better said – sharing it!
I was asked to read you another letter – this time on behalf of Richard Levin, VP (Health Affairs) and Dean of McGill’s Faculty of Medicine.
David Colman will be remembered by many for his contributions to science – by others for his mentoring.
But by all of us, he will be remembered
As the man who recognized the genius in Wilder Penfield’s concept and rekindled “the Neuro” – bringing “the family” back together.
As the man who cared as much about the patients as the science – witness his vision to establish a best in class Palliative Care Unit.
As the man determined to expand the virtual boundaries of the Neuro and its contribution to Neuroscience.
As the timeless (and often irritated!) Champion of the Neuro battling against “Cookie Cutter Solutions” (my words not his) or “One Size Fits All.”
As the seeker of “excellence”
As a believer of “what is worth doing – is worth doing right”
As “our imagination is our only boundary.”
I have described a leader -
One that envisions a future -
One that rallies those around him -
One that listens, cares, motivates, nurtures.
I have described a leader – not a manager.
David Colman was an exceptional leader!
I started by saying that we had lost a friend and a colleague. But that he
left us with a vision…and a mission.
We know what the vision is…
Our mission is:
To make a significant contribution to the body of knowledge in
neuroscience.
To apply this knowledge and our best skills to the care of the patients under
our custody.
To maintain the quest for excellence, the highest standards in all we
do.
To remain curious and open minded as “serendipity” may befall.
To respect and believe in each other as one would in a “family”.
To enjoy/be passionate about what we do – and have fun while doing it!
Thank you David – we owe you a whole lot!
When we wear our old deck shoes, we will be thinking of you!
