Vale Professor Saxon D Smith

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Clinical Professor Saxon Smith AM, a distinguished dermatologist, and a prominent figure in the medical community.  Professor Smith will be remembered by our members as the inaugural co-editor-in-chief of Opinions and Progress in Cosmetic Dermatology, the official journal of the Australasian Society of Cosmetic Dermatologists.

Professor Smith was renowned for his contributions to dermatology, particularly in cutaneous oncology and surgical dermatology. He was a Clinical Professor at The Australian National University and an Honorary Associate at The University of Sydney, where he was deeply involved in medical education and research supervision. His dedication to the Australian Medical Association of New South Wales, where he served as past President, and his influential positions on numerous medical councils and boards highlighted his leadership in the medical community.

His extensive research led to over 90 publications, earning him the Adrian Johnson Prize for his work on topical corticosteroid phobia. In 2019, he was honoured by the Australian Medical Association and received a Certificate of Meritorious Service from the Australasian College of Dermatologists for his contributions to medicine.

His Order of Australia AM in the general division was awarded in January 2022 for significant service to medicine as a dermatologist and researcher, and to professional societies.

Professor Saxon Smith’s legacy is marked by his profound impact on dermatology education, research, and patient care. He will be deeply missed by colleagues, students, and the many lives he touched. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends.

In honour of Saxon’s involvement with the ASCD, we are dedicating a scholarship to his memory. Each year 10 registrars will be funded to attend the entirety of the annual conference of the ASCD.

Professor Greg Goodman AM

ASCD President