Dean Nancy C. Andrews, MD, PhD shared the following news with faculty of the School of Medicine.
It is with profound sadness that I inform you that Sheldon Pinnell, MD, passed away on Thursday, July 4. This is an extraordinary loss, and I hope you will join me in extending your condolences to Sheldon’s wife, Doren Madey, and his family and friends.
Sheldon was the J. Lamar Callaway Professor of Dermatology emeritus and a transformative force in what is now Duke’s Department of Dermatology.
As chief of Duke’s Division of Dermatology from 1982-1997, Sheldon was a bold leader who developed and implemented major strategic initiatives that facilitated the growth and prominence of the division and culminated in the establishment in 2009 of the nationally-recognized Department of Dermatology. He led the recruitment of new clinicians and investigators and established new areas of research in immuno-dermatology and connective tissue, as well as new clinical efforts in wound care, laser medicine, dermatologic surgery, and pediatric dermatology.
Sheldon was a world-renowned scientist who made pivotal discoveries in our understanding of the biology of collagen in the skin, demonstrating the critical role of vitamin C. He also was a pioneer in the discovery and development of the role of topical anti-oxidants for the prevention of sun damage to skin. Sheldon was an enthusiastic teacher who trained many residents and research fellows, who today are leaders in dermatology.
This year, Sheldon received honorary membership into the Society of Investigative Dermatology, a deserving honor for a man who dedicated his entire career to advancing the field of dermatology through patient care, teaching and research.
We owe a great debt of gratitude to Sheldon for all of his efforts to support Duke and the Dermatology faculty and staff here. He will be remembered as a tremendous leader for this organization, but even more so, a true friend and mentor to so many of us.
A small private family ceremony will be held this week.
This fall, the Department of Dermatology will hold a memorial service to celebrate Sheldon’s life and the establishment of the Pinnell Center for Investigative Dermatology.