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Maurice Bernstein, PhD, longtime faculty member in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, passed away Sept. 2, 2001, in Pensacola, Fla. He was 78.

Dr. Bernstein was a graduate of Washington University, receiving his PhD in cell biology in 1950 after returning from military service in World War II.

An active scholar and researcher for more than three decades, Dr. Bernstein’s true legacy at WSU may be his ability to bring out the best in those who studied under his tutelage.

WSU Professor of Anatomy and Cell Biology Roberta Pourcho, PhD, is one of the numerous students who made their way through Dr. Bernstein’s lab on their way to successful careers of their own. The primary requirements for acceptance into the lab, according to Dr. Pourcho, were a good work ethic and a strong desire to succeed.

“Dr. Bernstein was the type of mentor who inspired students to develop
their projects to the best of their potential,” recalled Dr. Pourcho fondly.

“He might offer suggestions, but the implementation was strictly the student’s responsibility. He allowed us to work through problems on our own with the classic admonition, ‘Make your own mistakes!’”

Dr. Bernstein’s retirement to Lillian, Ala., did not diminish his desire to teach. He read to first graders at a local elementary school and continued to teach part time at Pensacola Junior College for several years after his retirement from WSU in 1992.

Dr. Maurice Bernstein is survived by his wife, Harriet Bernstein; his son, Paul Bernstein; one brother, Kalman Bernstein; and two grandchildren.

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