Dr. Alan R. Shalita, who served as Senior Editor of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology since its inception in 2001, died on February 2. Dr. Shalita was a distinguished Professor of Dermatology and Chariman of the Department of Dermatology at SUNY Downstate for almost 40 years.
Anytime we recollect our feelings about Alan Shalita, it will be as a distinguished leader in his field and a dedicated teacher and mentor. I have worked with Dr. Shalita on various projects for many years.
Alan Shalita influenced the lives of many, and made it possible for so many people to get the opportunity to become dermatologists.
Dr. Shalita was a pioneer in the treatment of acne and was recognized nationally and world wide for his skills as a clinician, researcher, and educator in Dermatology.
The Journal of Drugs in Dermatology honored Dr. Shalita with a Leadership in Distinction award at the American Academy of Dermatology conference in 2013.
Alan was a good friend and mentor to many of us and more importantly a true mensch. He will be sorely missed by the hundreds he trained and the many lives he touched.