Dr. Richard Krugman will soon step down as dean of the University of Colorado School of Medicine after 23 years. While he holds the title of the nation's longest-serving medical school dean still in office, Krugman will be remembered for more than his contributions to medical education. He also has a stash of trademark quips.
Among other tributes to his legacy, the university has published a list of his expressions and ice-breaker comments that his colleagues refer to as “Krugmanisms.”
A sampling:
- "If your only support is above you, then you're hanging.”
- “It seems to me we'd be trading a headache for an upset stomach.”
- “I met with all the stakeholders; I was medium rare.”
- “Please stay seated and read a magazine. The doctor will be with you in a minute.”
- “Trust me. I'm a doctor.”
- At the end of arduous discussions resolving once-thought-to-be intractable problems: “That was easy.”
In November, the school also hosted a Bow Tie Ball, named for Krugman's trademark neckwear, which raised $400,000 for the school.
But the pithy doctor isn't retiring entirely. He plans to return to his work at the Aurora, Colo.-based Kempe Foundation for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Abuse and Neglect.
