Julian J. Dwornik, PhD, a founding faculty member (emeritus) of the USF College of Medicine, passed away May 13, 2014. He was 76.
Dr. Dwornik, a member of the USF Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, was recruited to USF by the College’s founding dean Donn L. Smith, MD, and helped provide early direction for the College’s future instructional programs, as well as the design of the gross anatomy labs. Across his time at USF, he also served students as dean of Admissions and teaching Gross Anatomy.
“Whenever I saw Dr. Dwornik, he always had a smile on his face and was engaging,” said Phillip J Marty, PhD, associate vice president for USF Health Office of Research and interim chair of the Department of Pathology and Cell Biology. “It was clear he really enjoyed working with students and colleagues. His love of teaching was evident by the enthusiasm he brought to his coursework and the Anatomy Lab.”
“I agree wholeheartedly,” said Santo V. Nicosia, MD, Distinguished USF Professor, Department of Pathology and Cell Biology. “During my professional interaction with him, Dr. Dwornik was professional, knowledgeable and always a strong advocate of Anatomy.”
“When I joined the department Julian reached out and made me feel welcome,” said Karl Muffly PhD, associate professor in the Departments of Pathology and Cell Biology, Surgery and Chemical Engineering and director of the Anatomy Lab. “His caring nature for the students was obvious but he also held them to a high standard, which is what all instructors should do. I remember the day he got his citizenship and my wife, daughter and I surprised him by decorating his door with American flags. His reaction was priceless.”
A private celebration of his life is planned at a later date. Donations in honor of Dr. Julian J. Dwornik may be made to Mount Calvary Academy Building Fund, 3111 E. Wilder Ave., Tampa, FL 33610.
