In considering the great schools of political and social thought that have existed throughout history, there are likely none more renowned than the informal school that existed in Athens in the time of Socrates. Socrates (469-399 BC) was born into the upper social class, distinguished himself as a soldier, but has been immortalized for his contributions to logical thinking and teaching through the “Socratic Method”. He was put to death by his state at the age of 70 for the crime of civil disobedience. Although Socrates spent 25 years in the public eye, he never wrote down any of his teachings. They were all passed to his pupils by word of mouth.
On the contrary, Socrates’ star pupil, Plato (427-347BC), was a renowned writer who authored a number of books and Greek plays after the teachings of his mentor. He was much more socially acceptable in his statements. He continued his mentor’s efforts at social reform commemorated in his teachings and writings.
In the early 1990’s, the CSNS enjoyed a similar “school” of political science under the tutelage of such CSNS greats as Lyal Leibrock. The classroom was generally the hotel bar following an executive or plenary session. The drink of the evening was generally juniper instead of hemlock, although Lyal was always partial to a “CC Manhattan, up with a twist”. There were many afternoons where the discussions were heated enough to carry over through dinner.
Inspired by his senior partner Russell Travis, a former chairman of the CSNS, Jim Bean became active in the Council in the early 90s and learned to wax eloquent in the plenary debates. A gifted speaker and a tireless worker, Jim quickly rose through the ranks of the CSNS to become president of the Council from 1997-1999. As Leibrock’s Plato, Jim became known for his rational thinking and his gifted tongue. After chairing the Council, Jim served on the Washington Committee from 1999-2004, coming to chair that organization as well. He then moved up to the AANS Board of directors, serving as treasurer, president-elect, and finally president in 2008. His CV lists service on 23 different AANS committees. He has spent many days and weekends away from his practice in Lexington, Kentucky, lobbying congressional officials, speaking before congressional sub-committees, debating health care reform on television or at national forums. He has proven very persuasive in his lobbying efforts on behalf of organized neurosurgery.
On a more personal note, Jim was born in Cashocton, Ohio as the son of a radiologist. As his father completed training, the family moved to New Orleans, where Jim attended high school. He received a BA degree from the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, and then returned to New Orleans for medical school at Tulane. Having distinguished himself there, he went on to a general surgery internship and a neurosurgery residency in Lexington, Kentucky, where he has remained ever since. Jim’s wife Debbie has been his faithful supporter through all of his travels and political escapades. The Bean’s have three lovely children, Jeffrey, Allison, and Lucy. They also, as of recent, are grandparents to three grandchildren, Grant, Scarlet and Millie.
Jim serves as president of his neurosurgical group in Lexington. He has remained active in state and local politics. He has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications and over 50 total publications (beat that Plato!). At present, he and Debbie enjoy travel, and when not traveling, enjoy a peaceful evening sitting on the back deck, sipping a glass of wine and enjoying the sounds of the outdoors.
I can think of no better person to receive the Leibrock Distinguished Service Award than Jim Bean. Lyal would be proud of this fact. Jim cut his teeth in the Leibrock School of Political Science and put it all to use for the betterment of his profession. His tireless devotion to neurosurgery serves as an inspiration to us all.

Rick Boop