Dr. Richard C. Karl, M.D., was Moffitt's founding medical director. During his tenure from 1985 to 1991, he emerged as teh cancer center's first official spokeman, growing the medical staff and guiding the development of Moffitt's programs. His leadership became the cornerstone of Moffitt's exacting medical standards. His ability to present the issues, concerns and challenges facing doctors and patients alike form his legacy. Karl also served as chief of surgery at Moffitt and program leader of the Gastrointestinal Tumor Program. He retired from Moffitt in 2014.