In Memorium
The Miller School mourns the untimely deaths of three faculty members who made exceptional contributions in their respective fields
By Emily Wilson
David R. Gater Jr., M.D., Ph.D.
Professor and Chair, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Chief Medical Officer
Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center
Dr. Gater had an enormous impact in the three years he spent with UHealth and the Miller School. He brought national recognition to his department, doubling faculty and staff, expanding its clinical services to 10 sites throughout South Florida and achieving national ranking for its research. He also spearheaded the partnership with Shriners Children’s Hospital and was a leader in the opening of the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center.
A world-renowned physician and researcher, Dr. Gater is remembered as brilliant, innovative, kind and compassionate. His influence will be carried forward by his colleagues, patients and those he taught and mentored.
Enrique A. Mesri, Ph.D.
Professor, Microbiology and Immunology
Director, AIDS Malignancies Scientific Interest Groups
Co-Director, Miami Center for AIDS Research
Member, Tumor Biology Program
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Dr. Mesri leaves a tremendous legacy in viral oncology through his work in HIV/AIDS and cancer. He made a distinctive mark through his scientific collaboration with Argentina, his home country, and was twice honored by its government for his scientific contributions.
Dr. Mesri was passionate about training the next generation of scientists, in this country and internationally. He was always enthusiastic in putting new ideas forward and following through to put them into action. Humble and generous in his collaborative work, Dr. Mesri is remembered as a preeminent and respected researcher, a gifted and inspiring teacher, and an advocate dedicated to improving the lives of people suffering from cancer and related comorbidities.
Gregory V. Plano, Ph.D.
Professor, Microbiology and Immunology
Dr. Plano’s early research provided pioneering insights into the composition and function of the virulence-associated secretion system of Yersinia pestis. In 1994, he joined the University of Miami, where his lab made several discoveries that helped reveal the intricate systems this pathogen employs to overcome host defenses.
Dr. Plano also actively participated in the education of undergraduate, graduate and medical students. He was an outstanding teacher and mentor who was highly respected by his students and trainees.
Dr. Plano is remembered as kind and generous person, an exceptional scientist and a wonderful colleague who inspired through the vigorous exchange of ideas and results. His passing is a loss for the field of microbiology and for those who had the good fortune to know him.
