The following In Memoriam Tribute to Professor Kaufman was prepared at the invitation of the UCLA Faculty Senate Archives and will be included there in January, 2000. Joseph J. Kaufman, M.D. Professor of Urology, Emeritus "Had he been a soldier, he would have been General. Had he been a politician, he would have been Senator. Had he been a nobleman, he would be have been King." Joe Kaufman was the most distinguished urologist of his day. He was a complex, multifaceted individual, who was a brilliant physician and surgeon, a great teacher, and a personal inspiration to all who knew him. In any room of people operating room, lecture hall, athletic field, or social gathering his presence was the dominant one. He influenced the lives of thousands of patients, trainees, co-workers, and students during a UCLA career which spanned nearly 40 years. During those years, both UCLA and the specialty of urology changed from struggling start-ups into important forces. No individual did more to lead these transitions than Joe Kaufman. Joe was effective because of his innate leadership abilities, and also because he was a striking physical presence. Tall, dark, and handsome, he had a booming voice and a commanding demeanor. He was an extremely gifted communicator, clever and funny, both with the spoken and written word. In his many areas of endeavor, he exuded a self-confidence, which assured the best possible result. He was often called a "Renaissance Man" because he was talented in many different fields. | |
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