George E. Thoma, M.D.
Academy President Emeritus; president, 1992-1998
Vice President Emeritus, St. Louis University School of Medicine (1973 – 1986)
A graduate of the University’s School of Medicine, Dr. Thoma completed his internship and residency at Saint Louis University Hospital. Except for a three-year stint as a Major in the Air Force Medical Corps, his career path led from the Radioisotopes Laboratory to the top position at the Medical Center from 1973 to 1986. He also served as Dean, professor of internal medicine, professor of hospital and health care administration and was on staff at several area hospitals. Dr. Thoma served on the Board of Governors for Alexian Brothers Health Systems; was Director at Edgewater Medical Center and Edgewater Foundation, a Board member with Mercy Health Systems, Detroit Region; and chair of the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Arboretum committee.
Generally acknowledged as the “Father of Nuclear Medicine,” George was a pioneer in the use of radio-isotopes in diagnosis and the first editor of the Journal of Nuclear Medicine.
A long-time Academy Trustee and Fellow of the Academy of Science of St. Louis, he served as first vice president for several years, becoming president in 1992. His tenure as President ushered in a new focus and rebirth of the Academy, with the formation of the prestigious Academy Fellows and establishment of the Outstanding St. Louis Scientists Awards. Under his tenure (1992-1998), the Academy continued to increase its science and technology outreach to the public. His stalwart support and advocacy of hands-on STEM opportunities for students was responsible for the growth and expansion of the Academy’s Junior Academy of Science to what is today, a full array of opportunities for teens. A direct result of his legacy, are the thousands of area youth who, through their participation in expanded Academy programming for teens, see a future for themselves in the STEM fields of tomorrow.