Born with severe craniofacial deformities and hearing loss, Jack E. Sanders, M.D. ’57, refused to let his physical limitations define him. Instead, he transformed his personal challenges into a lifelong mission of healing, service and leadership. With unshakable resolve, he rose to become a revered physician, a pioneer in rural health care and a passionate advocate for medical education. 

For 46 years, “Dr. Jack” served his rural hometown of Graceville, Florida, with unwavering dedication. He co-founded the Campbellton-Graceville Hospital, where he delivered more than 1,500 babies and later served as chief of staff. Even in retirement, he continued caring for patients at a local convalescent center, embodying compassion, commitment and the spirit of service until his passing in 2004. 

A proud member of the Miller School’s second graduating class, Dr. Sanders remained deeply grateful to the institution that provided the foundation for his career. Nearly 50 years after earning his degree, he made history as the school’s first alumnus to endow a chair. His $2.1 million gift established the Bernard J. Fogel, M.D., Endowed Chair in Medical Education, honoring the former dean who mentored and inspired him. 

Dedicated in October 2007, the endowed chair stands as a tribute to Dr. Sanders’ enduring belief in the power of education to transform lives. His success as a physician — and his disciplined approach as a skilled investor — made the gift possible. But it was his humility, resilience and quiet generosity that left the most lasting impression. 

Dr. Sanders’ life is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make when driven by courage, conviction and purpose. His legacy lives on in the thousands he cared for — and in the generations of doctors his gift continues to inspire. He proved that one life, lived with purpose, can truly change the world.