Time out with T.O. – Dr. Pamies, a big man with big dreams

I remember vividly the first time I met Rubens Pamies, M.D.

It was 2002, and he was conducting an open forum as one of the finalists for the position of vice chancellor for academic affairs and dean of graduate studies.

Tom O’Connor

My first impression was a good one. I asked him for his thoughts on dealing with the media. He said he loved working with the media … that he had his own TV show at the University of South Florida.

He had a relaxed style and even cracked a joke at one point. He had this big happy face and reminded me of a teddy bear. How could you not like this guy?

He got the job and for more than eight years he carved out a niche in academic affairs that UNMC had never seen before.

He elevated diversity to much more than lip service. He co-wrote a book on health disparities. He started an alliance with a bevy of black colleges in Virginia. He led UNMC’s relief efforts when his native Haiti had its devastating earthquake.

He made students his top priority. His door was always open, and the students loved him. It was easy to see that he genuinely cared about them.

His creative juices were always flowing. He never stopped looking for the next idea.

Rubens Pamies, M.D.

He had an endless supply of energy. There just weren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done.

He was a key player on a number of national committees and organizations. His Frequent Flyer Miles had to be incredible.

Going to Dr. Pamies’ office was an experience. He had a collection of photos of himself with famous people. There must have been at least 50 of them. Barack Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Derek Jeter just to name a few.

His desk was more cluttered than mine (no small feat).

I was shocked at the news of his death two Saturdays ago. I’ve worked here for 23 years and have experienced the passing of some great people but the reaction to Dr. Pamies’ untimely death at age 52 was unlike anything I’ve seen in my time at UNMC.

About 300 people attended a local memorial service for him on Monday at Joslyn Art Museum — a fittingly large crowd for the big man who had bigger dreams.

Dr. Pamies had a lot left to offer and he leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

I will miss him.

Thanks, Rubens. You left us too soon.