As a farewell gift to Marvin, the Executive Committee arranged — through the International Star Registry — for a star in the firmament to be officially designated and registered as the “Marvin Margolis Star.” How fitting for a man whose vision has no limits and whose energy no bounds. It has been quite an experience to accompany Marv through his two years as president and to watch from “inside” as this dedicated and committed man used his wonderfully creative intelligence to address the wide range of issues that interested him both within and without the Association.
In 1993, when he was a candidate for president, Marv spelled out ten principles in his position paper [TAP 27/3]. It is impressive, but not surprising to anyone who has worked closely with Marv, to see how he was able to realize most of these goals. He will not accept that something cannot be done. Although he will occasionally take “no” for an answer, he will then immediately find an interesting possible solution that circumvents the obstacle, and the job gets done.
I have had the opportunity to watch him in a variety of settings, beginning with his term on the Program Committee a number years ago, and more recently at IPA Congresses, at meetings of the Consortium and the Committee on Foundations in Michigan and, of course, at all the Executive Committee, Council and Steering Committee meetings and conference calls throughout the year. In whatever role, Marv's integrity, perseverance, humor, and wisdom prevail. His eight years in leadership positions gave him plenty of opportunity to identify and think about the problems and issues that faced the organization over this very significant period. His imaginative ideas and vision have made a dramatic difference in the way the membership now perceives the organization and have created a very positive momentum of optimism for the future. His influence has set a course for the challenges that lie ahead for the Association. His plenary address on Friday, December 16, “Psychoanalysis in the United States — A Troubled Passage,” will no doubt focus on these challenges and place them into a still wider context.
Marv — always good-humored, exceptionally kind, loyal, upbeat, witty, fun, and intelligent — it has a been great ride. Thanks, and please keep on calling.