Many have heard me share that this school has, by far, the best alumni. I was fortunate to have that sentiment reinforced tenfold with a recent trip to Arizona. Whether snow birds or permanent residents, I welcomed the opportunity to meet with folks, share updates on School happenings, and enjoy the stellar Southwest weather.

From more recent alumni like Tony Ball (BS, Pharm’90) and Susie Kies Bazzell (BS, Pharm ’91, MD ’98) to Thora Vervoren (BS, Pharm ’53), Dave Sanders (BS, Pharm ’52, MBA ’56), Bob Dixon (BS, Pharm ’63; MS, Pharm ’65), and Earl Sallander (BS, Pharm ’54) they remind me of the impact our alumni have made and continue to make in all sectors of our profession—retail, clinical, research, industry, and beyond.

Tony brings his expertise to the CVS retail pharmacies in the Phoenix area. Susie is a successful anesthetist in Tucson. Thora’s legacy on the hospital side of pharmacy is still evident at Columbia-St. Mary’s in Milwaukee. Earl Sallander was joined by his wife Betty and could share firsthand experience of his work at the Rennebohm Drug Store in Madison. Dave Sanders was involved in the pharmaceutical/medical device industry for over 40 years and was an entrepreneur/business owner for more than 30 years. While Dave’s wife Miriam wasn’t able to attend, they have been long time supporters of the School with pivotal service by Dave as the National Vice Chair of the Pharmacy Building Campaign for Rennebohm Hall. He is the largest individual donor and served the campaign and the future pharmacy graduates with exemplary dedication. Dave and Miriam continue their philanthropic tradition including support of our PharmD students through the David and Miriam Sanders Military Service Scholarship Fund.

Upon my return from Arizona, Bill Linton, President and CEO of Promega Corporation, met with graduate students and presented “Working from the Inside Out,” an inspirational lecture about his journey from post-graduate work in Pharmaceutical Chemistry at the UW-Madison to starting his company.

Meeting with alumni is one of the best parts of my role as dean. I look forward to listening, learning, and sharing your passion for this school and the profession. Spring offers several chances to connect locally or at one of the national conferences. If you’re in the Rennebohm Hall neighborhood feel free to call or stop by. Take a look at the calendar at the bottom of the newsletter and join us for an event.

On, Wisconsin!
Steven M. Swanson, Dean