James L. Hughes Chair

Friends, colleagues and former residents of Dr. James L. Hughes Jr. have initiated a campaign to fund the James L. Hughes Chair of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation to honor his many contributions to the practice of orthopedic surgery.

Dr. Hughes, the M. Beckett Howorth Professor of Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation and medical director of University Rehabilitation Center, was named the first chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery in 1987. He served as chair until 2002. He also served as vice chief of staff at University of Mississippi Medical Center from July 1983 to June 1984 and chief of staff from July 1984 to June 1985.

"Dr. Hughes, with his kind, compassionate nature, matched by his gifted technical ability, combined with excellent surgical judgment and integrity ... is the consummate model physician to which we all aspire as medical students" said Dr. Robert McGuire, professor and second chair of orthopaedic surgery at UMMC.

"His teaching and management style encouraged teamwork allowing all involved to share in the overall success of the endeavor. I consider it a privilege and an honor to have been mentored by him. This orthopedic chair in his name will serve as part of his legacy to the Medical Center and to the practice of our discipline in this state."