I have known and worked with John Denstedt for nearly a decade, both as fellow Section representatives to the Board and as fellow officers of the AUA. The asset I admire the most about John is his unwavering calmness and adaptability. His “big picture” perception allows him to navigate substantial obstacles to perpetrate meaningful solutions with ease and without prejudice. He clearly analyzes each problem with the perspective of multiple potential remedies. He is a problem solver. He expects the unexpected and deals with change with amazing resiliency. The roles of the AUA Secretary are multiple, varied, and instrumental to the function of the AUA. In recognition of the vast scope of that work, a task force has been investigating the off-loading of a portion of the secretarial tasks. In truth, it is overdue. In reality, it may take multiple leaders to fill the shoes of John Denstedt.

John is personable and admirable in many additional ways. In particular, he is probably the world’s most accomplished minimal packer. “Never let the airlines touch your suitcase” was his advice to me. Never mind that he is traveling transcontinentally representing the AUA with events ranging from formal to casual and lasting weeks. Pick what you need and make sure it fits into your carry-on luggage.

Many of my resident lectures include a portion on leadership. I emphasize 4 qualities that I have borrowed from others. First, define your own reality and success based on your experience and vision. Second, be accountable. Third, be grateful and acknowledge those who help shape and assist your efforts. And lastly, aspire to a collective and shared benefit. True leaders lead by example. Four checkmarks for John Denstedt.