Ward Darley Papers

Ward Darley (1903-1979) was born and educated in Colorado, receiving his A.B. degree in 1926 and his M.D. in 1929, both from the University of Colorado. Upon completion of his medical degree he worked for thirteen years in private practice in Denver, at the same time developing a close relationship with the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He conducted much of his research there, as well as earning respect as an outstanding bedside teacher. He was appointed Dean of the school in 1945, as well as being Professor of Medicine (1946-1956). He was Vice President in charge of Health Sciences in 1949. Under his leadership the school made great strides, and a general medical clinic established at Denver General Hospital became a widely recognized educational experiment in comprehensive medical care, a special focus of Darley's career. He then became President of the University from 1953-1956.

Darley maintained a career-long interest in the Association of American Medical Colleges. He was elected to its Executive Council in 1945 and became President in 1952. His interest and work towards expanding and strengthening the AAMC led to his appointment as its first full-time Executive Director. Darley was responsible for, or contributed significantly to, the development of several programs such as the Educational Council for Foreign Medical Graduates, the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, and the National Intern Matching Program.

He was awarded honorary degrees from over twelve universities. In 1964 he received the AAMC's Abraham Flexner Award for Distinguished Service to Medical Education, its highest honor, among others.