Dr. Paul R. Elliott (1951)

Paul studied, taught, and lived the science of life: Biology. Paul was valedictorian of the Class of 1951 and then he went on to a distinguished academic career. As he progressed, Paul lifted up others as a mentor and the founder of a medical sciences program for under-served areas of Florida. He related extraordinarily well with students and received professional and teaching awards, notably for minority services.

Paul received his doctorate from the University of Michigan in 1961. He spent the majority of his teaching career at University of Florida. While at Florida, Paul was foremost a teacher, but also served as assistant dean, director, Assoc. VP and was awarded Professor Emeritus in 2000.

In addition to his accomplishments in studying and teaching biology, Paul Elliott lived what he taught. He was a master gardener and an accomplished cook. He was a founding member of a land co-op and physically helped construct his own house.

Starting in the 1980's, Paul was proactive in developing HIV/AIDS education.

The Paul R. Elliott Award is given annually to the outstanding University of Florida graduating medical student entering a primary care specialty.