Temple University School of Medicine - Skull Yearbook (Philadelphia, PA)

Page 10 text:

DEDICATION Derrick is considered a great friend to all. It takes a special kind of individual to touch the hearts and lives of so many on a consistent basis. If there was a PhD in human nature, Derrick would most definitely be a recipient of such a degree. Another member of the graduating class, David Zo-bian, shared some personal comments,“I call him ‘Rex' because he is a king. I would visit him after almost every test. No matter how hard the exam, how destitute I felt. Derrick always put a smile on my face and really put things into perspective.” Derrick truly values the students’ experiences throughout four years of medical school at Temple. He Freeman Biomedical Information Center says, “It is paramount that the students receive effective service consistently. I respect their decision to pursue a medical education and I admire their perseverance to graduate.” “Throughout the years,” Derrick says, “I've learned to recognize the first year T can conquer the world’ gleam: the second year ‘what did I get myself into’ gaze; the third year ‘no more lecture hall' hooray, and. the fourth year ‘I can't believe I did it!' leap.” Derrick experienced what we experienced. He always took the time to ask us the details of our studies and had an active part in helping us to see that there was a successful light at the end of the tunnel. 6 2004 Skull

Page 9 text:

rick and Vanessa had Lindsey, who currently resides in in Midlothian, Virginia and attends Manchester High school. Derrick is proud to share that his daughter has been selected to represent Virginia as a Student Ambassador in England and France this summer. 2004. Derrick proudly joined the Temple community in September, 1997. He was initially hired as a temporary library clerk at the medical school. Within a year. Derrick was made a full-time employee and planned to stay for an indefinite period of time. “Temple is amazing! he remarks. “I am proud to work at an institution of higher learning where diversity is second nature. It is like working at the United Nations! 1 treasure the opportunity to meet and deal with people of many cultures and backgrounds.” The Class of 2004 considers Derrick an asset to Temple University. Jeff Conly, a member of the graduating class shares, “Derrick is a great guy and the best part about visiting the library'. He has a way of making everyone feel like he is your best friend. You can't walk by the check-out counter without a friendly, outgoing hello and a few welcome minutes of good conversation.Derrick has a way of giving a humorous dose of reality to the sometimes trivial hardships of medical school. Temple University School of Medicine 5

Page 11 text:

Wally Baker reflects on Derrick's vibrant personality. “He takes a personal interest in getting to know all of the students, including their names, that he possibly can from the first day of medical school. Derrick takes his work seriously and adds a very special charm and enthusiasm for all that he does. He is a personality that we w ill always fondly remember from our days at Temple University.’' This special dedication to Derrick and all of the touching and meaningful comments made by students throughout the years could fill more pages than an entire yearbook can hold. Derrick was there for each and every student at one time during four years of our med- ical school education. He witnessed some of our highs and supported us through our unfortunate lows. Derrick was consistently available to celebrate the successes and repeatedly encouraged us to stay focused, recognize our goals, aim to achieve all and never give up! The Class of 2004 is so fortunate to have had the opportunity to benefit from Derrick's enthusiasm and devotion to the students at Temple Medical School. It is with gratitude and many thanks that we honor Derrick Russell with the dedication of the 2004 Skull. Destination M.D. WE LOVE YOU DERRICK! Temple University School of Medicine 7