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By EVMS News

Richard Lester, MD, a former dean of EVMS and professor emeritus of Radiology, died May 16 in Edmond, OK, at the age of 99.

Dr. Lester was a distinguished academic and institutional leader in 1984 when he was appointed dean of Eastern Virginia Medical School, vice president for academic affairs and professor of Radiology. Previously, he had led radiology departments at Virginia Commonwealth University, Duke University Medical Center and the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston. He also had been interim president of Meharry Medical College.

Dr. Lester served as dean at EVMS until 1989 when he was appointed founding chair of the school’s newly established department of Radiology. He retired from EVMS in 1993.

Gerald Pepe, Ph.D., professor of Biomedical and Translational Science and a former dean himself, remembers Dr. Lester fondly.

Dr. Lester appointed Dr. Pepe as chair of what was then the department of Physiology. The two spoke often following his appointment as Dr. Lester provided guidance for Dr. Pepe in his new role.

“He was a fantastic leader who helped put EVMS on the map,” Dr. Pepe said. “As dean he helped create an academic atmosphere at the school. I always appreciated his dedication to research and academics.”

During his career, Dr. Lester was considered one of the nation’s leading experts in mammography. He was a former president of the Radiological Society of North America and recipient of that organization’s highest honor, the Gold Medal, reserved for individuals “who have rendered unusual service to the science of radiology.”

While at Meharry, Dr. Lester was recognized by then-President Ronald Reagan for his efforts to advance educational access for minorities. The National Medical Association recognized him for his exceptional contributions to expanding educational opportunities.

Meharry presented him with an honorary degree in 1993. At the time, Frank Royal Sr., chair of board of trustees at Meharry, praised Dr. Lester for putting the welfare of the school ahead of his own career. Dr. Lester had been a trustee of the board for 15 years prior to his time as interim president.

“I don’t know of anyone who has made a greater contribution to the cause of medical education,” Royal said at the time. “He served as interim president during one of the most difficult times in the history of the school.”

Read more about his career and impact on field of radiology in a .