Richard G. Lester, MD, a visionary leader whose tenure as chair of the Department of Radiology at Duke from 1965 to 1976 marked a transformative era for the department and the School of Medicine, passed away on May 16, 2025. He was 99.
Dr. Lester joined Duke at a pivotal time, bringing with him a bold vision for radiology as a fully integrated academic department. Under his leadership, radiology at Duke was elevated to an independent department. His foresight ushered in the era of subspecialty radiology at Duke, which fostered scholarly activity and reflected the growing complexity of medicine. He recruited experts in neuroradiology, cardiac imaging, gastrointestinal radiology, nuclear medicine, and interventional radiology.
Beyond Duke, Dr. Lester’s impact was national in scope. He led departments at other institutions, as well as serving as dean of Eastern Virginia Medical School and president of Meharry Medical College in Nashville. He also held prominent leadership roles in the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), where he served as president and board chair, and the American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS), where his contributions helped shape the future of radiology across the country.
“Dr. Lester will be remembered not only for his academic and administrative achievements but also for his exceptional contributions to expanding educational opportunities and his commitment to service,” said Chair of Radiology Erik K. Paulson, MD, and School of Medicine Dean Mary E Klotman, MD, executive vice president for health affairs at Duke University, in an announcement. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Lester’s family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy endures in the strength and stature of Duke Radiology and in the countless lives he touched through his leadership and mentorship.”