James E. Bates, 84, retired chancellor of the School of Podiatric Medicine and the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine, died at home on Nov. 2, 2007, after a short illness.

After graduating from Temple University School of Chiropody in 1946, Bates began a podiatric practice in the Germantown area of Philadelphia that lasted for the next 25 years. During this period, he became an associate professor of radiology at the School of Chiropody.

After the school was closed, the Philadelphia College of Podiatric Medicine was organized in 1960, and Bates was made president in 1962. He personally led and oversaw the development of the Pennsylvania College from a single building to the seven-story college, clinic, housing and parking complex that now occupies a square block at Eighth and Race streets.

Along with the development of the physical plant, Bates directed the academic and financial development of the college.

In 1995, Bates retired as president of the school and became chancellor. A year later, he initiated negotiations with Temple that resulted in the acquisition of and merger with the Pennsylvania College in 1998. Bates continued serving as chancellor and chairman of the college’s board of visitors.

Bates was recognized as leader in the profession of podiatry, as well as in the education of doctors of podiatric medicine.

He was awarded the degree of doctor honoris causa from the Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine, Franklin Pierce College, Barry University and the California College of Podiatric Medicine.

Bates was the first podiatric physician named as fellow of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia. He was also a fellow of the Royal Society of Health in England and the British Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists.

“Jim Bates dedicated his time and his effort to the elevation of podiatric education,” said Dean John A. Mattiacci, successor to Bates at TUSPM. “His hallmarks were his determination and his unwavering insistence on excellence. He led our school for over 33 years, which constitutes the longest continual term served by any dean in any medical school in the country. Jim will be missed terribly by everyone who knew him, but his legacy will remain permanently in our profession.”

— Written by Meghan Rodowicz
For the School of Podiatric Medicine