In Memoriam: Celebrating the Legacy of Pres Judy
We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Coleman Preston Judy Jr. (“Pres”), a cherished colleague, mentor, and friend, who dedicated 40 remarkable years of service to Olympus Corporation of the Americas. Pres officially retired from Olympus in March 2015. As we reflect on his contributions and enduring legacy, we are reminded of the indelible mark he left on our organization and the broader medical community.
The Olympus Journey
Pres’s journey with Olympus began in 1975 when the company was just building its medical sales division in the US. His career, spanning four decades, was marked by a relentless drive, competitive spirit, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. A native of Lexington, Kentucky, Pres relocated to Atlanta to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology, where his talent as an athlete led to his induction into the Georgia Tech Basketball Hall of Fame. His transition from Veterinary Science to Business Management set the stage for a career that would be defined by passion and perseverance.
From the outset, Pres demonstrated the ability to build and nurture relationships. His early years at Olympus were spent navigating the challenges of training physicians on the safe and effective use of Olympus® colonoscopes as the field of GI endoscopy grew. At the time, colonoscopy was still a new procedure in its early years of adoption. Developing clinical relationships and getting the word out about the proper procedural techniques and patient benefits were keys to the advancement of both the technology and the business. His efforts in fostering collaborations with medical pioneers were instrumental in advancing endoscopic technology and establishing Olympus as a leader in the field.
“By any measure, this truly qualifies Pres as one of the founding fathers of Olympus’ Medical Systems Group.”
Path to Leadership
Throughout his tenure, Pres consistently exceeded expectations. His success as a sales representative led to his promotion to Southeast Regional Sales Manager, where he transformed his region into a top-performing team. His leadership continued to shine as he took on the role of Area Manager, overseeing sales east of the Mississippi River and playing a pivotal role in hiring and mentoring new employees.
“By any measure, this truly qualifies Pres as one of the founding fathers of Olympus’ Medical Systems Group,” said Steven Wendt, Vice President of Olympus’ Enterprise Solutions.
In 2000, Pres embraced a new challenge as head of corporate sales in the newly formed Healthcare Services department. Despite initial trepidation, he quickly recognized the vast opportunities in a top-down sales approach. His dedication to building relationships with key partners at the national group purchasing organization level and major healthcare systems helped Olympus firmly establish its Corporate Account program.
Impact and Legacy
Pres's legacy at Olympus is not merely defined by his impressive sales achievements but by the profound impact he had on those around him. His colleagues remember him as a source of wisdom, guidance, and unwavering support.
When asked what he was most proud of during his career, Pres shared: “I am most proud being able to be a part of a class organization and world class products for the past 40 years. It is an honor to be a part of the medical business whose goal is to make a positive difference in people’s lives. Being able to make lifelong friends that care about me and my family personally. Quotas and sales numbers are only a means to take care of your family. When you win an order or win the top region or area, it’s kind of like making a big hook dunk over Michael Jordan or kicking a 60-yard field goal to win the Super Bowl.”
This sentiment captured the passion and dedication that Pres brought to his work every day.
In Memory
As we honor Pres’s memory, we are reminded of the ways he enriched our lives and shaped the future of our company. His commitment to excellence, his invaluable relationships, and his wealth of knowledge will continue to inspire us. Pres once said he would miss the thrill of winning but would find solace in watching his grandchildren grow. It is this legacy of love, family, and dedication that we will forever cherish.
Pres will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we move forward, let us strive to embody the values he held dear and continue to build upon the foundation he so skillfully laid.
Sending our condolences to his children and two grandchildren. May he rest in peace.
