Remembering Dr. Jay K. Pandit, Dean Emeritus of Saint James School of Medicine

It is with a heavy heart that we inform everyone that our long time Dean of Clinical Sciences and a dear friend of Saint James School of Medicine (SJSM), Dr. Jay Krishna Pandit, 89, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. Dr. Pandit has been a part of SJSM almost since its inception and has been an integral part of the school’s success, particularly in regards to its Clinical Program. Born in Nagpur, India, he was a champion debater, editor of the newspaper The Genius, and a graduate of the Nagpur Medical College. He came to the United States in 1957 for his surgical internship and residency and became a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He was Chief of Surgery and Medical Director of Thorek Hospital and a trustee of the Thorek Foundation. He went on to become Dean of Clinical Affairs of Saint James School of Medicine in 2004 until his retirement at age 88. Dr. Pandit was truly a wonderful and selfless person and was always willing to help others in need. He was known for his quick wit, inspirational speeches, and generous spirit. He lived by the words, “what you give, you always have.” With a twinkle in his eye, he was always the first to take the dance floor. We at SJSM will always remember Dr Pandit for his fatherly advice, for his witty jokes, his bright smile and the numerous treats he would always hand out to us whenever he was around. He was our pillar of strength, support, and positivity, and his memory will live on in the hearts and minds of the hundreds of students, professors and staff at Saint James School of Medicine whose lives he has touched. We would like to extend our deep and sincere condolences to the bereaved family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.