Personal recollections of Seymour “Si” Reichlin, MD, PhD: A maven, a mentor, and a mensch

In this personal tribute, Leonard P. Kapcala, M.D., a former Endocrine Fellow who trained with Seymour “Si” Reichlin, M.D., Ph.D. for 4 years at Tufts New England Medical Center (TNEMC), recounts his experiences and interactions with Dr. Reichlin spanning nearly five decades. These recollections begin with his pursuit of an Endocrine Fellowship, continue through his training years, and extend to his ongoing relationship with Dr. Reichlin up through the celebration of Si's 100th birthday in June 2024 and, most recently, as of January 2025. After training with Dr. Reichlin, Dr. Kapcala went on to a distinguished career in academic medicine, research, biotechnology, and regulatory science. Through intimate vignettes and personal stories, Dr. Kapcala portrays Dr. Reichlin as a scientific maven with unparalleled expertise in neuroendocrinology, a dedicated mentor who provided invaluable guidance and a genuine mensch whose kindness and humanity touched all those around him. This tribute offers a unique window into the remarkable character and profound influence of one of the most distinguished figures in the field of neuroendocrinology.