Ronald B. Durning, Jr., MD

FAVORITE MEMORIES OF WILLIAMS

Freshman football and the ongoing friendships; pitch and hearts in Carter House; spontaneous Joe and Bing concerts; the “caveman” party; working with President John Sawyer; the night I got into medical school.

WILLIAMS CLUBS / ACTIVITIES

Outing Club, freshman football, freshman tennis, lacrosse.

CURRENT INTERESTS, PASSIONS, AND ORGANIZATIONS

Reading for pleasure and ongoing education; classical music; Alpine skiing; family. Food for the poor; local food pantry; Doctors Without Borders; environmental defense; national parks.

LIFE SINCE GRADUATION

Twenty-five years ago I shared that I felt incredibly and gratefully lucky. The subsequent 25 years have strengthened that feeling, but with a greater emphasis on gratitude.

I enjoyed a satisfying career of 35 years in medicine—both primary care and hospital-based. I think, I hope, I did more good than harm. Certainly, I learned more from those I was privileged to care for than I gave them. I was rewarded with their trust and goodwill—priceless. Friends and colleagues, including Doug Herr and Ron Mensh from our class, enriched the professional experience.

My wonderful wife, Margie, and I raised two caring, humane sons who are married to strong, loving wives and raising healthy, happy kids. They have good health and successful careers they enjoy. They care about others and the world around them. What more could a parent ask?

Margie and I have our health, financial security, a loving relationship, and friendship. We share excitement about our kids’ success, the joy and wonder of travel, a life in beautiful Williamstown, the marvel of our good fortune and lots of laughter.

I’m not a religious person, but I believe I am a spiritual one. I am part of things greater than myself, including this amazing Williams Class of 1972. I still feel incredibly lucky, but my life’s experience has filled me with a profound and humble sense of gratitude.