Citation for Paul Tessier Medal 2009: Professor Linton A Whitaker

Awarded for major contributions to craniofacial care in general and services to the ISCFS in particular.

It is with pleasure that I announce the decision of the ISCFS Council to award a Tessier Medal to Professor Linton Whitaker of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and University of PENNSYLVANIA Medical Centre.

This is in recognition of his long-term commitment and contribution to craniofacial care over many years. He is noted for substantial contributions in surgical technique, research and particularly education ( with 222 Scientific papers and co-author of 6 Textbooks ). He was the founder of the Craniofacial Programme at CHOP in 1972 with the subsequent implementation of the Philadelphia Fellowship programme in 1975. This has contributed to the education and training of a substantial number (39)of currently practicing Craniofacial Surgeons on an international basis.

Professor Whitaker ‘s award is also in recognition of his contribution to the ISCFS structure in terms of the financial management of the organisation from 1993. The official title of Chief Financial Officer was conferred on him by the society in 1997.

As a result of his stewardship during this tenure, the ISCFS has achieved a robust financial status despite the financial challenges throughout the period and particularly in the last few years.

As current President, I would like to extend congratulations to Professor Whitaker on behalf of our ISCFS membership, as well as express heartfelt thanks for both his achievements and commitments in the past and the anticipated ongoing contributions for the future.

Steven Arthur Wall,
MBBCh (rand) FRCS FRCPCH FCS (SA) plast
ISCFS President, 2007-2009