Dr. David Simel, is a Professor of Medicine in DGIM, and Vice-Chair for Veterans Affairs for the Department of Medicine.
For many in Duke University Medical Center it will be difficult to imagine activities without Dave Simel in the midst. It’s now 46 years since Dr. Simel first came to Duke. He has given so much to the GIM division, the DOM, the Durham VA, and the university.
Dr. Ken Goldberg, recalling help from Dr. Simel mentoring a publication, said “There is no one who has given more to the culture of the VA community. He is kind and he is generous.”
Other words we have heard were “he was a true leader during a tumultuous time [COVID peak]” and “he deserves to be on the Mount Rushmore of academic medicine”. So many are in awe of his leadership, mentorship, and support.
Dr. Simel was honored at Medicine Grand Rounds on April 7. Click here to view a recording. The Durham VA also held a special seminar entitled "C3PO and Words of Wisdom with Dr. David Simel" on April 6, where he talked about his career at Duke and viewers could ask him questions. (We are working on tracking down a link to this seminar, so check back soon for that.)
Dr. Simel came to Duke medical school in 1977, now forty-six years later he’s retiring. What a career! We wish Dr. Simel the best in his retirement and thank him for his years of service and his commitment to excellence in his career at Duke. So many have benefitted from his counsel, trust, and mentorship.
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