DEPARTMENT OF ANESTHESIOLOGY ANNUAL REPORT

FOREWORD
Upon reflection, the year 2000 has been much like those of the last ten years for the Department of
Anesthesiology of Duke University. Everywhere one looks one sees commitment—not self-absorbed
egomaniacal, but individual work that reaches beyond the corpus of all who learn and labor here—
there is a more grand aim, a collective spirit of determination to reach goals of excellence in all that
we do. And we have reached and exceeded even our own expectations—those most high among
all others.
How have we done it? We have remarkable people, professionals in the best sense of the word,
who put their patients and their colleagues first among all priorities. We have created a team named
the Anesthesiology Department that succeeds in patient care, teaching, research administration and
tolerance of the many ideas, personalities and diverse interests of our diverse Departmental members.
We are a mature Department now, secure in the knowledge that we know how to succeed. We have
learned, we have grown in statue and are a national leader—others follow our example. Lessons we
have learned are not forgotten they live in us all and we use them every day to continue our quest
for even greater achievement.
It has been a privilege to watch this metamorphosis from the sidelines—occasionally entering into
the fray, but more often consulting, cheering, consoling, and exhorting—always knowing that we would
exceed our loftiest goals because we had that intangible gift to succeed as a great department, not
as great individuals. Of course,it takes great individuals to accomplish these things, but it is the teamwork
that has allowed us to do it all so well. The future is bright and secure as long as this spirit
is preserved.
My 17 years at Duke have been gratifying, because of the achievements of everyone. In a recent
interview I was asked what has been “your most satisfying accomplishment”and the answer came
reflexly:“My greatest joy has been watching those around me grow and accomplish things they didn't
think they could do.” As I leave Duke I will always look back on the best group I have ever been
associated with—you made us all look so good! And I will forever cherish this time together. I’m
confident that next year’s annual report will contain even better works than all that have gone before.
This is the progress that Duke Anesthesiology stands for. Congratulations and Godspeed.