Loyola to Celebrate Legacy of Asok K. Ray at Upcoming Investiture

Asok K. Ray, MD, FRCS (Edinburgh), FACS, DA (London) is a retired orthopaedic hand surgeon known for his pioneering contributions to the field of microvascular surgery for hand-related treatment.  Dr. Ray’s career path began in Calcutta, India, and included time at the Royal College of Surgeons in Edinburgh, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, and Cook County Hospital, where he was mentored by Sidney Blair, MD, who thereafter became chair of the department of orthopaedic surgery at Loyola University Medical Center. His commitment to improving lives extends beyond medicine through his philanthropic efforts, including the establishment of the Indira-Manik Children's Hospital in India. 

Established through Dr. Ray's generosity, the Asok K. Ray, MD Directorship in Microvascular and Reconstructive Surgery reflects his longstanding passion for advancing surgical innovation and physician education. His philanthropy has expanded access to specialized microsurgery training, including educational experiences at nationally recognized programs such as the Cleveland Clinic and opportunities to learn from expert surgeons invited to Loyola. The directorship also strengthens Loyola's ability to attract outstanding talent while ensuring continued investment in the training, mentorship, and expertise that drive progress in the field. Through these efforts, Dr. Ray is helping prepare future generations of surgeons to advance microsurgical care, strengthen physician leadership, and improve outcomes for patients.

The upcoming investiture represents an important milestone in realizing the impact of Dr. Ray's philanthropy at Loyola. The ceremony will formally recognize Darl K. Vandevender, MD as the first holder of the Asok K. Ray, MD Directorship in Microvascular and Reconstructive Surgery. As he steps into the role, Dr. Vandevender will help carry forward Dr. Ray's commitment to innovation, education, and patient care. Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Vandevender shared, "I am deeply honored to serve as the inaugural holder of this Directorship and profoundly grateful to Dr. Ray for his vision and generosity. His extraordinary support is an investment in the future of our field, our trainees, and the patients who will benefit from our work for generations to come."