While Dr Denstedt has never been a direct mentor for me, over the years I have learned so much from him:

Grace under fire. That, to me, is Dr Denstedt’s most striking quality, and he has this in spades. He has handled the job of Secretary while continuing to manage a busy clinical practice and has still found the time to focus on education. I once had the privilege of watching him operate virtually and was struck by how easy he made everything look and how clear his method of teaching was. Amazing skill is one thing, but being able to share his techniques with ease is much more rare.

Constant innovation. Dr Denstedt’s research career is nothing short of inspirational. Having worked with some of his mentees, I have come to learn that he leads his research team with a steady hand but a constant drive to innovate and produce truly impactful work. His research output and the loyalty of his mentees speak to the success of his approach to academic urology.

Attentive listening. Dr Denstedt and I had a very brief conversation years ago that included a mutual interest in global health. Imagine my surprise when much later, a mentee who had met him mentioned that he told her of my work and recommended we talk. That has stayed with me and has encouraged me to pay closer attention to the words of the medical and undergraduate students that I meet. This in turn has led to new research ideas and collaborations that I would not have otherwise initiated.

Actively looking for ways to be supportive. I have learned from Dr Denstedt’s mentees and seen for myself that he makes the time to think about junior and early-career urologists and how best he might support their careers. On reflection, this has inspired me to think harder about how best I can advise not just my direct mentees, but the students and residents who come into my sphere of influence. Dr Denstedt has shown me that even the smallest indications of support can have far-reaching consequences.

Being a genuinely welcoming presence. Almost every time I have bumped into him, Dr Denstedt is on his way from one meeting to another. Nonetheless, he always has taken time to stop, say hello, and make me feel welcome at whatever conference we were both attending. He makes it a point to stop and reach out regardless of how busy he might be. This is the type of behavior in a leader that inspires loyalty and commitment.

Dr Denstedt is a pioneer of endourology and a role model for leadership.