A Vida e Obra do Professor Doutor Amândio Joaquim Tavares

Abstract

Introduction Professor Amândio Joaquim Tavares, born in Valpaços in 1900, was a figure that marked the panorama of the history of Medicine and university education. This dissertation aims to review and honor his legacy. Material and Methods The bibliographic research of this dissertation is based on the documents obtained from the FMUP Library, as well as on the online thematic repository of the University of Porto. Interviews were conducted with the three granddaughters of Professor Amândio Joaquim Tavares: Professor Purificação Tavares, Maria Cândida Tavares and Maria do Carmo Tavares. Documents and photographs were provided by the family, who helped to supplement all the information about his life path. Findings Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, with an average of 20 values, he specialized in Pathological Anatomy. In 1932 he took over the regency of the Curricular Unit of Pathological Anatomy. He was the first chief of the department of this area at Hospital de São João in 1956. He was appointed Dean of the University of Porto between 1946 and 1961, and was the person who held this position for the longest in the history of the University of Porto. During this period he led the evolution and growth of the University of Porto. Discussion The career and life of Professor Amândio Tavares influenced the course of the history of the city of Porto, having had an impact on the growth of the Faculty of Medicine, at the Hospital de S. João, and especially at the University of Porto. The institution that is the University of Porto as we know it today, has its foundations based on the bases created by this person, through reforms and expansions made at the time he was Dean. His constant dedication and work are well recognized and transpires his influence, culminating in the appointment of Honorary Dean. Conclusion The Professor left a legacy hardly equal, recognized by his peers and all who worked under his influence. It is, and will always be remembered, as a reference of leadership, teaching and humanity in the city of Porto.