Isidore Cohn, Jr. MD Biography

 

Dr. Isidore Cohn was raised in New Orleans in a prominent surgical family. He received his M.D. and D.Sc. degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. Many were surprised when he did not join his father in a busy uptown surgical practice at Touro Infirmary, but instead was recruited to a full-time position at LSU by Dr. Rives in 1952. Upon Dr. Rives retirement in 1962, Dr. Cohn was named Professor and Chairman of the Department of Surgery, a position that he held continuously for 27 years. His tenure is among the longest of any major surgery department head in the history of modern post-graduate training.

More than 200 surgeons have completed residency training under Dr. Cohn’s direction and have made major contributions to surgical care and surgical education throughout Louisiana and the United States.

He served as president or director of many surgical organizations, but perhaps is most proud of being named President of the Southern Surgical Association in 1983.

In June 1987 The Isidore Cohn, Jr. Professorship of Surgery was dedicated, the first million dollar chair at LSU Medical School.

When Dr. Cohn stepped down as Chairman of the Department in 1989, Dr. J. Patrick O’Leary became the first Isidore Cohn, Jr. Professor and Chairman of the Department of Surgery. As emeritus professor, Dr. Cohn continued his teaching and lecturing, as well as offering sage advice and counsel to all that sought it. A “Retirement “ Gala in July 2000, where he was named Emeritus Chairman, was attended by past residents, faculty, administration, family members, and a number of prominent surgical leaders from across the country.

On March 22, 2002 The Isidore Cohn, Jr., M.D. Learning Center was dedicated. Former surgical residents and The James D. Rives Surgical Society were the major donors to this cutting edge facility.

Although heavily damaged by the floodwaters of Hurricane Katrina, funds have now been secured to allow not only repairs, but enlargement of the Center, insuring its place as a lasting tribute to Dr. Cohn’s 55 years of dedicated service to LSU and his commitment to excellence in teaching and surgical care. Construction is currently underway for the new and expanded Isidore Cohn, Jr., M.D. Learning Center on the Sixth Floor of the Lion’s Eye Clinic. It will be directly above the Center of Advanced Practice (which was opened in January 2008). The new Isidore Cohn, Jr., M.D, Learning Center is scheduled to open in Spring of 2009.

It is because of this rich history of service to LSU and Dr Cohn’s commitment to education that the decision was made to change the name of the society to the Isidore Cohn Jr.-James D. Rives Surgical Society. This was done not only to honor Dr Cohn but to perpetuate the society and continue the goal of fostering camaraderie among its graduates.