A Torry Testimonial
Andy Wilber, PhD, is a microbiology professor and occasional collaborator with Dr. Donald Torry at SIU School of Medicine. He has observed Torry's steady hand in the lab, at the helm of the Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology, and as associate dean for SIU Medicine’s research. He's also heard him give a lot of motivational speeches through the years.
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My favorite Dr. T-ism is one that Don uses when giving the welcome address at the SIU internal research trainee symposiums. He refers to the 3 T’s of research: Time, Talent and Treasure. I am going to use these themes to define Dr. Torry’s importance to SIU School of Medicine.
Time: Even though he is extremely busy, Dr. T always finds time to meet with students, colleagues and staff alike. He addresses all questions with the wisdom of scholar; leans into challenges; sees a positive scenario in all situations, and has the foresight to identify change when needed.
Talent: While not a starting pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals, Dr. T’s talents are equally impressive. He has the understanding of a parent, the patience of a fisherman and the calculus of a championship coach. He has the unique ability to identify individual strengths and channel them to benefit the entire team. He leads by example and is a personal and professional role model to all who have worked with him, me included.
Treasure: As the former chair of the Department of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Cell Biology and now Associate Dean for Research, Dr. T has been a steadfast and vocal cheerleader in support of all research conducted at the School of Medicine. He is fiscally responsible but thinks outside the box when necessary, and ensures that all research is equally supported and highlighted.
When advocating for research funding from administrators, donors or community member, Don leverages a powerful statement made by Mary Lasker, a prominent supporter of medical research, who said “If you think research is expensive, try disease.”
In short, Dr. T is the epitome of honesty, integrity, intellect and leadership—and the reason why I, and so many others, look up to Don as a friend, colleague and mentor. The School of Medicine is lucky to have him.
