William E. Davis, MD

Dr. Davis' name is synonymous with otolaryngology at MU. He is a key architect of what has recently become MU's Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery.

Dr. Davis began leading a tiny team of otolaryngology faculty members and residents at MU in 1981. The group was like a family in those days. They could, and sometimes did, fit into a 1970s station wagon.

During the next 20 years, Dr. Davis recruited the faculty members MU required to possess expertise in all aspects of otolaryngology. He also contributed greatly to the development of training and research programs, making otolaryngology one of the most promising departments at MU's School of Medicine.

Dr. Davis joined MU after receiving a bachelor's degree in biology from Rockhurst College in his hometown of Kansas City, Missouri. After graduating from MU's medical school, he completed an internship at the University of Texas in Dallas. Dr. Davis then returned to MU to complete his residency training and joined the faculty in 1973.

He practiced general otolaryngology until 1985, when he channeled his practice into rhinology and surgery of the paranasal sinuses. He also served as director and initiator of the head and neck tumor clinic at MU and the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital.

Dr. Davis' colleagues and former residents regard him as a superb teacher, clinician and true gentleman. But Dr. Davis' gentle manner belied a bulldog-like tenacity for building an excellent otolaryngology department. He developed MU's otolaryngology division from essentially two generalists to a faculty with all subspecialties represented and full-time researchers. He constantly encouraged his colleagues to innovate, investigate and publish.

Dr. Davis also led by example. He is an international presenter and the author or co-author of more than 100 articles. He has served on editorial boards for the Ear, Nose and Throat Journal, the Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Journal and Missouri Medicine.

Throughout his career, Dr. Davis has provided leadership for MU medical school committees and professional organizations. He is especially active in the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. He has served on the board of directors for the academy's foundation, and he has coordinated the academy's program and scientific presentations. He currently chairs the academy's audit committee.

As a Naval Reserve Officer, Capt. Davis received a commendation medal for more than 25 years of service to the Navy. He also received a Distinguished Service Award from MU's Medical Alumni Organization and was elected a member of Alpha Omega Alpha. He serves as a fellow in MU's Jefferson Club and School of Medicine McAlester Society.

In recognition of his contributions to MU's medical school, Dr. Davis was presented with the title of professor emeritus in 2003. The following year, an endowed professorship established in Dr. Davis' name was presented to the first chair of MU's new Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery.

Few physicians have done as much to develop their field of medicine at MU. The MU Medical Alumni Organization and School of Medicine are proud to present Dr. Davis with their highest honor, the Citation of Merit Award.