Arnold Salzberg, HB, MD: The Pied Piper of MCV

Abstract Salzbergian\solz-bərgē-ən\ adjective of, relating to, or following the teachings of Arnold Salzberg. Noun one who embodies all that Arnold Salzberg taught about humanity. Noun one who has obtained his or her HB degree. Webster's dictionary would probably define “Salzbergian” as one who trained under Arnold Salzberg and exhibits the same great character traits, mentoring ability, and surgical skills. These might be the words that are used, but many times words cannot do justice to describing something so special. Arnold Salzberg was many things to many different people, “father figure,” “wonderful advisor and resource,” “ultimate mentor,” “humanitarian,” but when he was asked how he wanted to be remembered, he simply smiled and replied, “Icon…that would be nice.” Never at a loss for words or humor and forever with an open door to his office, home, and heart, Dr. Salzberg embodied what so many medical students, residents, and attendings have been striving for, the ideal combination of physician and human being.