A L B A N Y C O L L E G E O F P H A R M A C Y A N D H E A LT H S C I E N C E S M A G A Z I N E SU 14
Alumni News
THANK YOU
DR. GOZZO
P R E S I DE N T JA M E S J. GOZZO STE PS DOW N A F TE R 16 Y E A R S
Today’s students. Tomorrow’s health care professionals. Your Annual Fund gifts help make it possible. Thank you for investing in our students. As of May 30, your generous support has netted $250,000. Tuition and government support provide only a portion of the funding required to meet the needs of today’s students and tomorrow’s pharmacy and health care professionals. The Annual Fund is a crucial component in bridging the gap between tuition and government support and the actual cost of educating students. Thank you for your continued support.
Learn more about students who are the grateful recipients of your donations at
acphs.edu/thankyou
SEND STORY IDEAS, COMMENTS, LET TERS, AND SUGGESTIONS TO :
Alumni News ACPHS 106 New Scotland Ave Albany, NY 12208 888.203.8010 alumni@acphs.edu www.acphs.edu
Alumni News ALBANY COLLEGE OF PHARMACY AND HEALTH SCIENCES MAGAZINE
SUMMER 2014
EDITOR
Megan Davis WRITERS
Megan Davis Gil Chorbajian Bob Schalit PHOTOGRAPHERS
Scott Barrow Mark McCarty Kris Qua DESIGN
Coppola Design
IN T HIS IS SUE 08 INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT GOZZO DR. GOZZO REFLECTS ON HIS EARLY DAYS AT ACPHS AND WHY HE FEELS NOW IS THE TIME TO STEP DOWN
12 A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE INFUSING GLOBALIZATION INTO THE FABRIC OF THE COLLEGE
16 IGNITING A PASSION FOR SCIENCE C OMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRAMS PREPARE THE SCIENTISTS OF TOMORROW
20 A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE THE PHARMACEUTICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (PRI) EXPANDS THE LEVEL OF RESEARCH AND SCHOLARLY ACTIVITY AT ACPHS
22 REFLECTIONS THE ACPHS COMMUNITY REFLECTS ON DR. GOZZO’S LEGACY AND THE LASTING IMPACT HE HAS MADE
Special Insert ACHIEVEMENTS AND 02 MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR
GROWTH DURING
04 CAMPUS NEWS
DR. GOZZO’S
24 COMMENCEMENT
PRESIDENCY
26 CLASS NOTES
SUMMER 2014 1
MESSAGE FROM HERBERT CHORBA JIAN CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
can only imagine what the reaction would have been had Jim Gozzo said during his job interview that he envisioned a College with two campuses, nine buildings, 12 academic programs, and an enrollment of 1,600 students. And that all of this would be achieved in just 16 years. You have to remember that the College had been “in business” 117 years at that point and had just one building, one academic program, and an enrollment of less than 600 students. After hearing such a vision laid out for the College, I suspect that many people on the search committee would have passed on him, figuring this was clearly someone whose reach exceeded his grasp. What a mistake that would have been. While Jim may not have known exactly what the future would bring, he saw a potential in this College
There are many individuals who when faced with these opportunities would have found reasons not to move forward, rather than seizing the moments as Jim did. In each instance, Jim would boil the decision down to one key question, “Is this in the best interests of our students?” If the answer was yes, he would find a way to make it happen. It was essentially this thought process that provided the motivation to build the Student Center. Jim relates the story of how students used to attend class and then immediately return home, usually to an off-campus apartment, because there were few spaces for them to congregate on campus. He felt the students needed a central place to come together, to have those types of interactions that define a college experience and help forge a true community spirit.
While Jim may not have known exactly what the future would bring, he saw a potential in this College that few others thought possible. that few others thought possible. As importantly, when opportunity knocked, Jim always answered the door. Not long after being named president, Jim had an informal meeting with the Dean of Albany Law School. During the conversation, Jim learned that the Law School, which co-owned a residence facility with Albany Medical College, was looking to sell the building. Jim said he might be interested in purchasing it, and before you knew it, the College owned Notre Dame Hall. Similar types of scenarios played out through the years with the purchases of South Hall, the Bioscience Research Building, and the Holland Building. Each of these acquisitions has played a key role in defining the Albany Campus by providing much needed space for classrooms, laboratories, offices, and student housing. The moves also provided the College with the necessary resources to allow for its continued growth. Some may see these acquisitions as the outcome of good fortune, but it’s not that simple.
2
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
Out of this observation was born the idea of the Student Center. There were those who questioned whether such an endeavor was necessary, especially in light of the other building acquisitions. Jim, however, had no doubts, and he was able to obtain the necessary support to move the project forward. From the moment they opened the doors, the Student Center became the hub of life on campus, and it remains that way today. Further proof that when you are motivated by the best interests of students, good things will happen. So it was altogether fitting when on April 24, 2014 the Student Center was named in honor of Jim and his wife Lorraine. In many ways, that building personifies Jim because he was, is, and will always be student centered. It has been my pleasure to have worked closely with Jim through the years. He has been a tireless champion of the College, and I thank him for all that he has done to elevate the profile of this great institution.
SUMMER 2014 3
C AMPUS NE W S
Preceptor Recognition Awards
During the Senior Salute dinner for the Albany campus on May 14 and the Vermont campus on May 15, the following Preceptor Recognition Awards were presented.
Amit Pai Pharm.D.
David Coriale Pharm.D. ’97 and ’04
PRECEPTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR’S AWARD
Dr. Pai is an Associate Professor of Pharmacy at the College and offers both an elective research and an antimicrobial monitoring inpatient APPE rotation at Albany Medical Center Hospital.
Dr. Coriale is a bachelor’s of science and Pharm.D. graduate of the College and has served as a preceptor for institutional, inpatient, ambulatory care, critical care, APPEs and institutional IPPEs for over a decade.
Jessica Farrell Pharm.D. ’07
Roseanne Cohen BS, RPh. Kelli Rothenberger Pharm.D. ’08
DISTINGUISHED PRECEPTOR AWARD
Dr. Farrell has served on the faculty since 2008 and offers an ambulatory care APPE rotation at her practice site at the Center for Rheumatology in Albany. Rick Hogle BS, RPh.
EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR’S AWARD
Roseanne and Kelli work as a team at Fletcher Allen Health Care and have been preceptors for both the IPPE Institutional and APPE Institutional and Inpatient rotations since 2011, taking on multiple students at a time.
DISTINGUISHED PRECEPTOR AWARD
Rick is the owner of Fairfax Pharmacy in Fairfax, VT and has been a preceptor for the Community Pharmacy IPPE rotation since 2010 and APPE rotation since 2012.
Track and Field Team Debuts The men’s and women’s track and field teams made history in the beginning of April when they competed in their first intercollegiate meet. Hosted by American International College in Springfield, MA, the meet featured stiff competition from schools at the Division I, II, and III levels. Among the highlights: Freshman Kyle Guiffre placed 17th out of 36 in the shot put; Freshman Richard Rinaldi placed 18th out of 31 in the discus; Senior Melissa McGough placed 12th in the pole vault; and Freshman Shannon McCormick placed 19th out of 38 in the long jump.
ACPHS Alumna Returns as Speaker in Seminar Series Lisa Murphy, Ph.D., a 2009 graduate from the B.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences program, was back on campus in April to speak at a Pharmaceutical Sciences Seminar. As an undergraduate at the College, Dr. Murphy worked in the lab of Professor Arnie Johnson, in addition to working with a faculty member at Albany Medical College. Following her graduation from ACPHS, she attended Vanderbilt University where she received her Ph.D. in pharmacology. Dr. Murphy will soon be headed to Harvard University to do her postdoctoral research.
4
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
Exchange Students from Japan Experience Life at ACPHS The College hosted four Japanese exchange students from Showa and Hiroshima Universities in the Spring semester (ACPHS has affiliation agreements with both universities and sends students to Showa on APPE rotations). Organized by the Office of Global Initiatives, the five week cultural exchange program included visiting local healthcare facilities, attending ACPHS classes, and participating in an intensive English language program. The students, who lived on campus, also spent time exploring life in Albany by hiking in the Adirondacks and volunteering in the community. Earlier this year, the College hosted 11 students from EWHA Womans University in South Korea.
Cytotechnology and Clinical Laboratory Sciences Students Receive White Coats Eight members of the M.S. in Cytechnology and Molecular Cytology program, three members of the M.S. in Clinical Laboratory Sciences program, and six members of the B.S. in Clincial Laboratory Sciences program received their white coats at a ceremony held on April 25 in the Student Center. Following the white coat presentation, the CLS students recited the “Pledge to the Profession,” and the Cytotechnology students spoke the “Oath of Conduct.” As in pharmacy and other health professions, the white coat ceremony symbolizes one’s transition from a student to a professional.
Pictured from left: Andy Hu, Sara Gronlund, Amanda Kaley, John Denio, Breann Litwa, Julia Rosenberger, Chiara Evans, Steven Toffel
First Group of Students Inducted into Provost’s Honor Circle On May 1, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Provost John Denio along with faculty and administration welcomed seven bachelor’s students into the Provost’s Honor Circle. The Honors Circle was created to provide B.S. students with an organization comparable to Rho Chi, the academic honor society for pharmacy students. In order to be considered for the select group, students had to submit an application, two letters of recommendation from faculty, be interviewed and carry a grade point average of at least 3.5. The inaugural class is made up of seven Bachelor
of Science freshmen who will be expected to work on a three-year health care focused project of their choice and present it to the college community before their graduation. Provost Denio and a team of faculty will be meeting with the group every other week to checkin on their progress and provide direction wherever needed. “They have a big charge ahead of them,” Provost Denio says. “But I have confidence in this group that they are going to rise to the challenge and produce something very impressive.”
SUMMER 2014 5
C AMPUS NE W S
Gozzo Student Center Dedication The ACPHS Student Center has been renamed “Gozzo Student Center” in honor of ACPHS President James Gozzo and his wife Lorraine. The new name was unveiled during a special ceremony that took place on April 24 in front of a crowd of students, faculty, staff, trustees, and members of the Gozzo family. The inscription on the plaque that will hang in the Student Center Atrium says, in part, “For his leadership and commitment to the community, the college honors Dr. Gozzo and his wife by dedicating the Student Center in their names.”
6
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
Campus Community Members Relay for Life The ACPHS chapter of Colleges Against Cancer held its 7th annual Relay for Life in the Student Center at the end of February. Though it took place a few weeks earlier than in the past, the enthusiasm and support for the event was still at the same high levels. A total of 39 teams and 442 registered participants helped raise an estimated $35,000 for the American Cancer Society (donations are still being accepted at the ACPHS Relay for Life page). One of the most popular fundraising activities was “going bald for cancer,” which drew more than 20 participants including faculty members Jeff Voigt, Jeffrey Brewer (pictured above), and Andy Flynn. To view photos from the night, visit the ACPHS Facebook page. Students, faculty, and staff from the Vermont Campus (pictured above) participated in Relay for Life in April, joining teams from the University of Vermont and St. Michael’s College. Throughout the course of the night, more than 50 people from the College came out to support the event, with six folks staying for all 12 hours. Students in the Vermont Campus chapter of Colleges Against Cancer set a fundraising goal of $2,000, and not only were they able to reach that total, but they surpassed it by nearly $250!
Students Selected for Summer Research Award Program Seven students have been selected as recipients of Summer Student Research Awards. The annual program provides stipends and summer housing for students interested in pursuing laboratory, clinical, or other research projects under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Congratulations to this year’s awardees and mentors: Bi Jun Chen (Mentor: Jeffrey Voigt), Uzair Khawaja (Charles Bergeron), Liam McGuey (Nimish Patel), Bethany Reid (Eric Yager), Venkatesh Satram (Stefan Balaz), Elizabeth Silver (Meenakshi Malik), and Miranda Wells (Karen Glass).
Capital Campaign ACPHS launched its first capital campaign under Dr. Gozzo in 1999 with a goal of raising $10 million. The campaign closed in October 2006 after raising $18 million. The College is in the midst of a second campaign (“Moving Forward”) which launched in 2011. The Moving Forward campaign has been instrumental in helping advance a number of key priorities to date, including: increasing scholarship support; financing renovations to the library; renovating and expanding research laboratories; and installing a new athletics field. Over the past 16 years, the College has increased its endowment from $8 million to $35 million.
SUBS CRIBE TO THE
Alumni Alert eNewsletter Get all of your ACPHS and industry news delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for the free Alumni Alert online newsletter and be the first to know what’s going on at the College and beyond. To be added to the Alumni Alert list email alumni@acphs.edu
SUMMER 2014 7
LEADER VISIONARY MENTOR SCHOLAR DR. GOZZO STEPS DOWN AF TER 16 YE ARS AS PRESIDENT OF THE COLLEGE 8
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
JAMES J. GOZZO, Ph.D., BEGAN HIS TERM AS PRESIDENT ON JULY 1, 1998, AF TER HAVING PREVIOUSLY SERVED AS DEAN OF THE BOUVÉ COLLEGE OF PHARMACY AND HEALTH SCIENCES AT NORTHE ASTERN UNIVERSIT Y. DR. GOZZO REFLECTS ON HIS E ARLY DAYS AT THE SCHOOL, THE GROW TH OF THE COLLEGE OVER THE PAST 16 YE ARS, AND WHY HE FEELS NOW IS THE TIME TO STEP DOWN.
How did you first learn of the opening at the College? I received a phone call from [former Physics Professor and current Board Member] Joe Lapetina. He told me that I had been nominated for the position of president and that the search committee would like to meet with me. To be honest, I didn’t have a strong interest in the job at the time. Boston was my home. All my family was there. I really didn’t know anything about Albany. I grew up in Connecticut, and my vision of New York was always New York City. But I figured I’d go out and see. What did I have to lose?
What was the interview process like? I visited the campus several times, and I was impressed by the Board, the faculty, and the students. They all struck me as really nice people. I came to view the College as a jewel that needed to be exposed and grew excited about the opportunity to be president. I was eventually offered the position. I distinctly remember Al Collins, who was the board chair at the time, and his wife Marie driving out to meet me and my wife Lorraine at a restaurant in Chicopee, Massachusetts. That was a halfway point for both of us. He had the contract with him, and I signed it. And that was it.
Before you came to ACPHS, you were a funded researcher for much of your career. Was it hard to leave that behind when you became president? When I came to the College, I planned to continue with my research, but that proved difficult for two reasons: (1) At Northeastern, my lab was located near my office, so it was easy to stay connected, and to ensure that things were moving in the right direction. When I arrived here, I was given access to a lab at Albany Medical College; however, the distance made it hard to monitor laboratory experiments. (2) I quickly realized the demands of being President would be more than my responsibilities as a Dean at Northeastern. I continued to subscribe to scientific journals for three or four years, but I couldn’t find the time to keep up. I never, however, saw myself moving away from research – that was like a separate family for me. It was something I liked doing. And I still feel it now. Hopefully, I will be able to re-engage on some level once I step down from this position – at least touch the surface of the field.
What was Job #1? Al Collins told me, “We want to be the number one college of pharmacy in the country.” That was the charge from the Board. I saw my responsibility as laying out a plan to help us reach that goal. But the College was not in the best place in the late ’90s. We had just the one building. There was very limited technology. The Student Center had not yet been built. We were competing against colleges with expansive campuses and opportunities, and as a result, we were struggling to attract students. I felt that if we sat still, it was going to be a real challenge to continue achieving our enrollment goals. So I thought back to my previous experiences at Northeastern and tried to fit them to this institution.
SUMMER 2014 9
This was about the time that the philanthropist Marty Silverman came into the picture. What was his vision for the University Heights section of Albany and how did that overlap with your vision for the College? Marty wanted to establish Albany as a center for education and medical research. He envisioned something similar to the Mayo Clinic. He was an amazing person. He was always steps ahead in how he thought and was a real catalyst for change. Without his commitment to buy the former CBA Building, we would continue to be landlocked and have limited opportunities for growth. Marty and I had a great
relationship. I considered him a friend and, through his efforts, both us and the Law School were able to expand our campuses at a critical time. Albany Medical Center got the heliport, and the funding for their annual Medical Prize. All of this was largely through Marty’s efforts. His impact will clearly live on forever.
What happened next? As the vision for University Heights began to take hold, other opportunities started to emerge. We acquired Notre Dame Hall from the Law School and Albany Medical Center. We purchased the Nelson House (now South Hall) from the Episcopal Diocese of Albany. A few years later we bought the former Department of Transportation building on Holland Avenue. These acquisitions weren’t necessarily planned but circumstances were conducive at the time. Given our situation, I didn’t feel that I had the luxury of crafting a thorough and extensive masterplan. My style was, and is, to assess and make decisions and then move as quickly as possible in a direction that’s in the best interests of the institution. While these moves were happening in the early 2000s, the job market for pharmacists began to improve and that presented some urgency to our expansion as applications began to increase.
At the same time there was an expansion of the physical campus, there was a similar expansion in the academic
10
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
program offerings. Why did you feel the need to add new programs during a boon period for pharmacy? One of my top priorities all along was academic program diversity. I had experienced many cyclical changes in enrollment at Northeastern. Pharmacy would be very strong for a period, then experience a downturn. I saw the impact that had on resources. Nursing, Physical Therapy, Clinical Laboratory Sciences. They all experienced similar peaks and valleys. In the early 2000s pharmacy was very strong, but I knew there would come a day when that wouldn’t be the case. To sustain the institution, we needed to be better balanced and less dependent on a single program.
stronger scholarship/research base. The funding environment today is very difficult. We have many faculty that can contribute significantly to health care, but we need to identify resources to support them.
Why the decision to leave now? The average term for a college president is about six years, so I consider myself very fortunate to have been here for 16 years. Much of that is due to the fact that I’ve always had strong support from the College’s Board of Trustees. If I did not have that relationship with the Board, I probably wouldn’t have stayed as long as I did. I also want to be able to devote more time to my wife Lorraine, my children Jennifer, Veronica, and Andrew, their spouses, my nine grandchildren, as well as other family and friends.
The students are the reason we are here, and that’s what the Student Center symbolizes. To have our name on that building is an especially great honor and very much appreciated.
How did you decide which programs to add? We worked to implement programs that were well aligned with our faculty expertise and existing resources. We weren’t in a position to pursue programs such as Physical Therapy, Speech Pathology, Nutrition, etc., because those would have required additional faculty, and we didn’t have the resources for that. The first new program was Clinical Laboratory Sciences. We first began offering that program in 1938, but it was phased it out in the late 1980s. I knew (current Program Director) Elyse Wheeler from my Northeastern days, but at the time, she was working as Vice Chair of Pathology at Albany Med. I was able to convince her to come here and restart that program. The next program was Pharmaceutical Sciences, and we continued to build from there. In each instance, we took steps to ensure that any new program we added was consistent with our mission and complementary to our other degree offerings. Today we have six bachelor’s programs and five graduate programs, in addition to the Pharm.D.
What has been the greatest challenge faced along the way? I go back to the original charge from Al Collins – to be the number one college of pharmacy and health sciences. I feel that, in some ways, we are close to that goal. I believe the education that we offer is second to none. Our faculty are top notch. The facilities are first rate. But there are still opportunities to improve. For example, I would like to see a
You recently had the Student Center dedicated in your honor. What was that experience like? The Student Center was a key project for us. In a fairly short period of time, we doubled our enrollment from the late ’90s to the mid-2000s. But there was no focal point for student life. Students would go to the O’Brien Building and then return to wherever they lived. I always say that the students are the reason we are here, and that’s what the Student Center symbolizes. So to have our name on that building is an especially great honor and very much appreciated.
What is the future of this College? I feel very good about the future. I think we have the infrastructure to build on. Are we where we would like to be? No. We need to continue growing enrollments in our bachelor’s and graduate programs. We need to secure more teaching and research support for faculty. And we have to continue to be on the lookout for new program initiatives that may be a good fit for us. But we’re in a great location next to major medical centers such as Albany Med, St. Peter’s, and the Stratton VA, as well as many other colleges and universities. We have enviable strengths in drug development and pharmaceutical research. If we can leverage our strengths with those of other institutions, then individually and collectively I think we can achieve the vision for University Heights and the greater Capital Region.
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 11
FE ATURE STO RY
A Global Perspective ONE ASPECT OF DR. GOZZO’S VISION WAS TO INFUSE GLOBALIZATION INTO THE FABRIC OF THE COLLEGE
T
he College’s global initiatives program once comprised of just a few trips initiated by dedicated and passionate faculty who saw value in their students achieving experiences outside the classroom. Today the Office of Global Initiatives functions as a centralized hub for a variety of international programs. Growing the Global Initiatives program and giving each student at ACPHS an opportunity to have an international experience are key elements in the College’s Strategic Plan. “Dr. Gozzo made this a priority and backed the resources making this a full functioning arm of the college,” explains Jessica DiLorenzo, Director of Global Initiatives. “His vision not only included off campus short term study abroad experiences, but also incorporated bringing students and faculty from around the world to us.”
12
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
KENYA
ALASKA
A distance experience allows students to gain firsthand, in-depth knowledge of another culture, see the world from a new perspective, and develop intercultural skills that will help them succeed in today’s world. ACPHS offers semester-long programs in Central America, South America, and Africa. Pharmacy students can also choose to do elective rotations in Switzerland, China, Japan, Brazil, Dominica, Guatemala and Kenya. The Elmendorf Air Force base in Anchorage, Alaska, is another popular destination rotation for pharmacy students. While it may be in the United States, it offers the same real world perspective and opportunities for growth that international rotations afford. “It changes you, not only as a pharmacist but as a person,” says Joseph Procopio, class of 2014, about the six week Alaskan rotation that he and fellow classmate Molly Squilla, ’14, completed in the fall. “It helps you grow up. You
BELIZE
and inpatient care with hospital beds. Alaska is great if you want to go into a hospital or community setting. I would highly recommend it.” In their downtime, Joseph and Molly also found time to experience the beauty and wildlife that Alaska has to offer. Some notable activities included salmon fishing, mountain climbing, and wildlife cruises where they saw killer and humpback whales.
It changes you, not only as a pharmacist but as a person. It helps you grow up. You learn a lot of life lessons and it forces you to become more independent. learn a lot of life lessons and it forces you to become more independent.” From dispensing medications and doing rounds with doctors to counseling patients at a warfarin clinic, Joseph and a team of seven pharmacy students from around the country never stopped learning. “We saw about 20 patients a day and experienced everything in one setting from outpatient care, ambulatory care,
GUATEMALA
“The mission of the College is to get as many students as possible to participate in a global experience, even if it’s not one that requires international travel. It changes you and makes you a better pharmacist,” Joseph states. There are also alternative spring break trips available to places like Dominican Republic. “This is brand new this year,” Jessica explains. “While there are no credits associated with these types of trips, they are still extremely educational. It’s a way for students to travel and still be learning at the same time, and much like a traditional spring break, they get a rest from their academics.” If Dr. Gozzo had not had the vision would the global program exist today? “Dr. Gozzo has been an incredible driver and I do not think the program would have grown or be what it is today without him,” Jessica says. “His support has allowed for centralization and the opportunity to effectively market and spread the word that all of these opportunities are available. He has provided students with a platform to be well-rounded as pharmacists and health care professionals. Today’s competitive landscape and market sets our ACPHS student aside from other pharmacy schools.”
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 13
S A R AT O G A R A C E T R A C K
AUGUST 2
COMMUNITY
5K EXPO HEALTH + WELLNESS
September 27, 2014 9am–3pm on the ACPHS campus 14
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
1
15
89
Ac P H S ACTINIUM
PHOSPOROUS
HYDROGEN
16
SULFUR
Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Summer Science Camp Summer Science Camp at ACPHS sparks imaginative learning and gives kids the opportunity to discover science through interactive and hands-on activities and experiments. Children become junior scientists and embark on fun science inspired field trips each week! Three one-week sessions for elementary and middle school aged children. $210 per session. Register your child for one or all three weeks to receive a discounted rate. Discounts will also be available for early registration.
AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH
What a student learns outside the classroom is equally if not more valuable than what can be absorbed from a textbook.
SESSION DATES
July 14 – July 18 July 21 – July 25 July 28 – August 1
AGE GROUPS
Entering grades 4–6 Entering grades 7–8
acphs.edu/sciencecamp For info call Rebecca Beach at (518) 694-7189
T H E G OZ Z O G L O BA L E X PE R I E N C E F U N D One of the objectives of the College’s Strategic Plan is to implement globalization on a broad scale, with the goal of each student having a global experience before they graduate. Dr. Gozzo has long been a strong believer in this idea. The Gozzo Global Experience Fund was created in his honor because of the passion and dedication he showed our students and his efforts to make students more connected to the world.
When you support the Gozzo Global Experience Fund you are providing a student with an incredible opportunity to learn and touch lives abroad. These experiences will help mold our students into even greater health care professionals and better prepare them for a life of community service upon graduation.
CALLING ALL ALUMNI
Preceptors Wanted Help shape a student’s future and launch a professional career by becoming a preceptor today. FOR MORE INFORMATION or TO GE T STARTED AS A PRECEP TOR C ONTAC T
To make a donation to the Gozzo Global Experience Fund contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (518) 694-7393
Laurie Briceland laurie.briceland@acphs.edu
Campus Development and Expansion
+ In 1998, ACPHS had fewer than 600 students; today there are 1,600. + In 1998, 11% of ACPHS students were from out of state; today 20% are from out of state.
+ In 1998, pharmacy was the sole academic discipline at ACPHS; today the College boasts six bachelor’s degree offerings and five graduate programs in addition to the Pharm.D.
+ International students make up 10% of the College’s enrollment.
Increased Commitment to Research
+ ACPHS Academy (2007) – A science enrichment program for elementary school children in the city of Albany. There are now more than 100 students enrolled in the program.
+ Joint degree programs in medicine, law and business have been developed through cooperative agreements with neighboring colleges (Albany Medical College, Albany Law School, and Union Graduate College).
ACHIEVEMENTS INCLUDE
Growth and Diversity of the Student Body
Academic Diversification
Community Initiatives
+ Summer High School Enrichment Program (1999) – Opportunity for local high school students to gain exposure to research and learn about the various career options available in pharmacy and related scientific fields.
+ In 1998, ACPHS had one building that sat on approximately two acres of land; today the Albany Campus is comprised of eight buildings spread across 25 acres. New buildings include: Student Center Library Building and Gymnasium Bioscience Research Building Notre Dame Hall / South Hall, Holland Building
+ Leased space at UAlbany’s East Campus in Rensselaer for the Pharmaceutical Research Institute. + Opened a satellite campus in Colchester, Vermont in fall 2009. + Additional enhancements include major renovations to research labs, practice labs, the dining hall, library, and the construction of a new athletics field.
+ Establishment of the Pharmaceutical Research Institute (PRI) in 2003 and subsequent addition of the Center for Nanopharmaceuticals (made possible through a $2 million grant from New York State). + Through increased investment in research, faculty at College have obtained ten (10) NIH grants in just the past five years – a figure that would have been unthinkable prior to Dr. Gozzo’s arrival. + Cultivation of faculty expertise in areas that include nanotechnology, nephrology, and infectious disease.
Fundraising + ACPHS launched its first capital campaign under Dr. Gozzo in 1999 with a goal of raising $10 million. The campaign closed in October 2006 after raising $18 million. + The College is in the midst of a second campaign (“Moving Forward”) which launched in 2011. + Over the past 16 years, the College has increased its endowment from $8 million to $35 million.
EDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH AN ERA O
PLANNED GIVING
There are ways to support Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in which the College, you, and your loved ones all benefit at the same time. With thoughtful planning, you create win-win solutions for you and ACPHS.
GI F T S A N YON E C A N M A K E Gifts by Will or Living Trust
Gifts of Appreciated Securities
Gifts of Real Estate
Give to ACPHS without affecting your cash flow during your lifetime.
After making a gift of appreciated securities to ACPHS, the IRS will allow you one of its most significant tax breaks.
Make a substantial gift to ACPHS through a transfer of residential, commercial or undeveloped real estate.
Gifts of Life Insurance
Gifts of Personal Property
Create a significant endowment for ACPHS without dipping into your capital assets.
Donate books, artwork, or equipment and secure an income tax deduction.
Gifts of Retirement Plans Your retirement plan may be worth more when donated to ACPHS than to your heirs.
GI F T S T H AT PAY YOU I NCOM E Charitable Gift Annuity
Pooled Income Fund
Charitable Remainder Unitrusts
Receive a fixed payout and significant tax benefits.
We offer a life-income gift that works like a charitable mutual fund. You can give ACPHS cash or securities, receive an income tax deduction and avoid capital gains tax on the transfer, secure lifetime income, and deliver significant support to us.
Choose from several options that best meet your personal financial situation.
Deferred Gift Annuity Build retirement earnings by deferring the onset of annuity payments (recommended for younger donors).
Charitable Remainder Annuity Trusts Combine a charitable gift with a predictable fixed-income payout by placing your donation into an individually managed trust.
GI F T S T H AT PROT EC T YOU R A S SET S Charitable Bargain Sales
Retained Life Estate
Charitable Lead Trusts
This part-gift/part-sale transaction gives you a charitable deduction plus cash to purchase other property.
You can donate your home to ACPHS and continue to live there rent-free.
Freeze the taxable value of your appreciating assets by using them to make gifts today and pass them back to family members later.
FOR MOR E INFOR MATION VISIT
acphs.plannedgiving.org
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 15
FE ATURE STO RY
IGNITING A PASSION FOR SCIENCE One of the hallmarks of leadership is vision. Dr. Gozzo’s vision has extended far beyond the College walls into elementary school, middle school, and high school classrooms. The ACPHS Academy and the High School Summer Enrichment program are two examples of how he has sought to engage area youths and help nurture their interests in the sciences.
ACPHS Academy
I
n 2007 Dr. Gozzo initiated the ACPHS Academy, an afterschool program providing hands-on, STEM lessons (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) to at-risk youths. According to Rebecca Beach, Director of the Academy, “The students love the program because they’re having fun learning new things. Parents tell me their children wake up and ask excitedly, ’Is today an ACPHS day?’ “We expose these scholars to subjects such as math and science in the hope that they’ll pursue careers in STEM disciplines,” Rebecca says. “As a science-based institution, we feel a certain responsibility to stimulate interest in these areas, especially since our nation lags behind others in these fields.” More than 100 students spanning grades three through eight now attend the Academy. Each year a new class of 20 third grade students is enrolled, as the other classes move up one grade level. Students attend classes on the ACPHS Albany Campus for one and a half hours a day, two days a week, 10 weeks each semester. The classes are taught by local schoolteachers who are assisted in the class-
16
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
room by ACPHS students who serve as mentors to the young scholars. All of the costs associated with the program are paid by the College, with a portion of the funding supported through donations. “Besides providing science education to these students, we’re also educating their parents about college since many of them haven’t gone to college themselves,” Rebecca added.
O
ver the years the scholars have enjoyed learning about everything from the lifecycle of butterflies and the solar system to the human body and DNA. Camaryn Smith, 13, says, “My favorite thing this year was learning about the different layers of the earth. Last year we powered bottle rockets with water and one shot so high we lost it on top of a building. Coming here encourages me to try my best in all my classes.” Five years ago Tashanay Blanton, now 13, hatched a creative idea for her end-of-year Science Fair project. She made pajamas that played music to help people get to sleep at
ACPHS students serve as mentors to the young scholars.
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 17
night. “We’ve also built solar powered cars and worked with this substance called gak which is a liquid in your hand but a solid when you put it down.”
The students love the program because they’re having fun learning new things. Parents tell me their children wake up and ask excitedly, ‘Is today an ACPHS day?’ — REBECCA BEACH, ACPHS ACADEMY DIRECTOR
“Dr. Gozzo’s vision was that we needed to get students thinking about science careers early,” Rebecca says. “He said we’re going to offer this opportunity, and he just did it. He believes so much in this program that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to ensure it succeeds. “Initially, I split my time between the Academy and another role at the College,” continues Rebecca. “One day I told Dr. Gozzo there was
so much more the Academy could be if I could focus on it 100%, and he made this a full-time position. That’s helped us accomplish so much more in the past three years.”
The High School Summer Enrichment Program
T
he second prong of Dr. Gozzo’s focus on youth is ACPHS’s High School Summer Enrichment Program, which he began in 1999, following his first year at the College. The six-week program is now headed by Dr. David Clarke, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. “The program’s primary goal is to expose high school students to biomedical and pharmaceutical research,” says Dr. Clarke. “They are paired with faculty research mentors six hours a day, four days a week. The students either assist with a faculty member’s ongoing research or are given a project designed specifically for them. That research culminates in a
Students working in PRI during their summer enrichment program.
18
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
presentation they give to the college community when they complete the program.” On the remaining day of the week, the students take tours of local pharmaceutically related institutions including Albany Medical Center, Regeneron, Mallinckrodt, Covidien, and Albany Molecular Research. “This gives them opportunities to see what they’re learning about in action,” says Dr. Clarke. “The final step is a series of lectures that explains the drug development process so they gain an understanding of how all the pieces fit together,” he adds.
A quick glance at some of the recent research projects shows that these students are challenged in the program. Research subjects include cancer and coagulation, the role of the POP2 gene in regulating inflammation during the flu, the stability of epinephrine in expired EpiPen Jrs., the efficacy of heparin-based anticoagulants, and the study of microRNA in cancer cells.
The students [in the High School Summer Enrichment Program] either assist with a faculty member’s ongoing research or are given a project designed specifically for them. — D R. DAVID CLARKE, HS SUMMER ENRICHMENT PROGRAM DIRECTOR
“The students we select for the program typically have done well in their high school chemistry and biology courses,” says Dr. Clarke. “Most of them are interested in pursuing careers in the health or medical fields, but don’t yet know about all the options available to them.”
“Dr. Gozzo established this program because he thought we should give something back to the community, and he remains an ardent supporter,” Dr. Clarke says. “Every year he personally meets with the students and makes sure they understand the high expectations he has for them. And he always comes to the closing ceremony to hear them present their work.”
High school students give presentations to the college community at the end of the summer enrichment program.
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 19
FE ATURE STO RY
One
of President Gozzo’s top priorities when he was hired in 1998 was to expand the level of research and scholarly activity at the College. This has been achieved through a number of initiatives including intramural grant programs for students and faculty, the expansion of laboratory space on campus, and the hiring of faculty members with strong research credentials. But perhaps nothing reflects his commitment to research better than the establishment of the Pharmaceutical Research Institute (PRI) in 2003.
UNDER THE LEADERSHIP of Shaker A. Mousa, Ph.D., PRI has evolved into a center for drug discovery and development, forging collaborations with academic, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology institutes from around the world. As part of its mission, PRI is also engaged in teaching and learning. Each year approximately a dozen ACPHS pharmacy students in their final professional years pursue research rotations at the Institute. At the end of these rotations, the students publish review articles in academic journals. “Dr. Gozzo is not your typical college president,” says Dr. Mousa, who has served as PRI’s Chairman and Executive Vice President since its founding. “He is an outstanding immunologist and his laboratory background gives him a deep understanding of the value of discovery and research. To be a strong academic institution, you have to have strong research as well.” The two first met while Dr. Mousa was giving a talk in Albany, and they hit it off right away. “He started calling me and connecting me with various people who wanted to fund my research in Albany. I liked his personality, his charisma, his courage, his persistence. He kept asking me for my help, and my nature is if someone asks me for help, I want to help.” It’s easy to understand why President Goz-
zo viewed Dr. Mousa as the perfect person to launch PRI. Dr. Mousa was a principal research scientist and research fellow for 17 years at DuPont Pharmaceuticals. While at DuPont, he was involved in a number of key discoveries, including the development of Cardiolite, a drug which is used as an imaging agent in stress tests to see how blood is flowing to and through the heart. His work has been reported in more than 1,000 peer-reviewed publications, and he holds 350 U.S. and international patents. The combined efforts of President Gozzo, Dr. Mousa, and the other faculty of the College have transformed ACPHS into an institution not just dedicated to passing along knowledge, but to one that is also playing a role in the future of drug discovery and development. One of the ways the College is doing that is through a spinoff company, Nanopharmaceuticals LLC, which already holds 44 patents and has had more than 50 peer reviewed articles in high impact journals according to Dr. Mousa. The company’s first product is Nanotetrac™, a novel agent that has shown potential for the treatment of cancer, nonmalignant skin diseases, and diabetic eye disease. And a second spinoff is already in the works, this one devoted to devices. “There’s currently a device for patients with liver cancer that in-
Building a Solid Foundation for a Brighter Future
20
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
fuses chemotherapy into the liver, recirculates the blood, and returns it without exposing the patient to chemotherapy. But the device had a lot of problems in the past. We collaborated with investigators at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute,
to ACPHS and its research program. “Dr. Gozzo’s vision and friendship have benefited me tremendously. We share a common philosophy of life, which is making a difference and helping others no matter where they are.
The combined efforts of President Gozzo, Dr. Mousa, and the other faculty of the College have transformed ACPHS into an institution not just dedicated to passing along knowledge, but to one that is also playing a role in the future of drug discovery and development.
addressed the problems, and the device was patented last year,” says Dr. Mousa. Reflecting on their strong and enduring bond, Dr. Mousa shared some final thoughts about Dr. Gozzo’s influence on his life and career and expressed his gratitude for his many contributions
Under Jim’s leadership, the College experienced growth like never before in its history. He should feel great knowing that he’s built a strong foundation for the future of our school. Mission well done, Jim.”
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 21
REFLECTIONS U.S. REPRESENTATIVE PAUL TONKO NYS 20TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
“I wish to congratulate Jim on 16 years as president of Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. His commitment to ACPHS and the greater Capital Region has been nothing short of extraordinary. From expanding degree programs to making ACPHS a leader in pharmacy education, to a capital program that has expanded the ACPHS campus beyond Albany, his legacy is one that will be remembered for vision and a commitment to excellence.”
SELIG CORMAN ’58 DIRECTOR OF PROF ES SIO N A L A F FA IRS P H A R M A C I S T S S O C I E T Y O F T H E S TAT E O F N Y
“I met Jim before he was hired. I was on an alumni interview team. I knew he was the right person, because he was an avid Red Sox fan. The profession has changed a great deal in the last 16 years, as has the college starting with a name change, an expansion to a real campus and revision of education technique. Just as a winning team requires good management and talented players, ACPHS has been led by Jim with a talented faculty and administration. He couldn’t do it alone. What I will always remember about Jim is his speaking style, never brief, but obviously, he made his point.”
JAMES J. BARBA, J.D. PRESIDEN T A ND CEO ALBANY MEDICAL CENTER
“It wasn’t long after Jim arrived in Albany that he began powering the College into the future. Under his able guidance, our neighbor — for a long time a quiet little college of pharmacy — took quantum leaps, expanding and playing an increasingly important role in the world of pharmacy and health sciences higher education. He also helped our neighborhood coalesce as University Heights, bringing a new spirit to this part of the City of Albany. Indeed Jim Gozzo leaves a legacy which has, and will continue to, buoy us all. I thank him on behalf of Albany Medical Center.”
22
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
DR. GOZZO HAS NOT ONLY MADE A LASTING IMPACT ON THE ACPHS COMMUNITY, HIS ACTIONS HAVE BEEN FELT FAR BEYOND THE CAMPUS WALLS AND HIS LEGACY WILL CONTINUE TO LIVE ON FOR MANY YEARS TO COME.
K A N D Y D A L E Y ’ 74 M A N A G I N G P H A R M A C I S T, K I N N E Y D R U G S
“I had the opportunity to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees for the College from 2003–2009 and during that time I was able to work very closely with Jim. I remember it being a whirlwind of activity. The College advanced so greatly under his leadership in such a short period of time. He never rested on his laurels and accomplished so many wonderful things for the College, always keeping the students in the forefront. He was constantly thinking about ways we could better the College or go the extra mile to make ACPHS one of the finest institutions in the United States and he certainly achieved that. We had a great working relationship and we talked all the time. I will miss that.”
JOHN MCDONALD ’85 N Y S A S S E M B LY M E M B E R 10 8 T H D I S T R I C T
“What I will most remember about Jim Gozzo is his gentle and thoughtful approach to moving the College forward and how well he handled the day to day tasks. As a visionary he has taken the College to a whole new level both physically and academically. The physical changes speak for themselves however it is the program changes and the emphasis on research which I believe has placed ACPHS in a whole new sphere. It makes me proud to be an alumnus of the College.”
DAN CORWIN P H A R M . D . , C L A S S O F 2 014
JERRY JENNINGS M AY O R O F A L B A N Y, N Y 19 9 4 – 2 013
“Jim was a true partner with the city of Albany. He was very involved in the revitalization of the corridor and he deserves a lot of credit not just for the school but for our city. He deserves to enjoy himself and his family. I just wanted say thank you, Jim for your continued friendship and partnership.”
“What I most admired about Dr. Gozzo was his willingness to listen. During my six years as a student at the College he always made himself available. He was interested in different opinions and genuinely wanted to know what you were thinking or how you felt about a particular topic. I can’t tell you how many times I just dropped by his office unannounced and he gladly took 10–15 minutes to meet with me. It was nice to have those informal discussions. He truly had an open door policy and I’m going to miss that. I think this approach has also served him well as our president. In his leadership role he talked to the right people, gathered information and thought things through before making a decision. He taught me to analyze and not be reactive. I think the very best thing about Dr. Gozzo, however, is his wife Lorraine. Where Dr. Gozzo is calm, cool, collected and often reserved, Lorraine is the life of the party. They’re a great balance.”
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 23
C OMMENCEMENT
T
:: A L B A N Y
he 134th graduation ceremony for the Albany campus took place on May 17 with outgoing President James Gozzo delivering the commencement address. The College awarded an honorary degree this year to alumnus Lawrence (Larry) H. Mokhiber. Larry is the Executive Secretary of the New York State Board of Pharmacy and member of the Class of 1971. The College awarded 32 bachelor’s, 30 master’s and 206 doctor of pharmacy degrees totaling 268 graduates. Fifteen percent of the graduating class was from foreign countries. The following day on May 18, the College graduated its second class from the Colchester, Vermont campus, awarding one master’s degree and 65 doctor of pharmacy degrees. State Commissioner of Health Harry Chen gave the commencement address. The graduates represented 15 states and two countries.
24
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
C OMMENCEMENT
:: V E R MON T
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 25
CL A S S NOTES
SHA RE YOUR NE WS ! The Office of Institutional Advancement is happy to pass along your news and messages to fellow classmates and community members. If you would like to share an announcement, news or update regarding your professional and/or personal life, please contact us at: PHONE (518) 694-7393 EMAIL alumni@acphs.edu
1962
1989
2003 and 2005
On October 26, 2013 Thomas Bartle and Heather Bartle-Ferrarese ’96 honored their parents, Brian and Linda as they celebrated 50 years in business. Brian Bartle purchased the family pharmacy in 1963, changing the name to Bartle’s Pharmacy from Oakwood Pharmacy. In 1968 they moved the pharmacy to its current location in Oxford, New York. On behalf of the ACPHS community, congratulations on this tremendous achievement, we wish you another 50 years of success!
Tammy Brown (Bowman) and her business partner, Jessica Luu, DPM, recently developed a nail cosmetic line with antifungal and antibacterial preservative, Nu Wave Nails. The company was recently paired with the Nancy Davis Foundation, www.erasems.org and 10% of sales through their website www. nuwavenails.com will be paid to the foundation with coupon code ERASEMS. Tammy and Jessica are delighted to be paired with such a worthy charity! Additionally, they donated 1,500 bottles for the Race to Erase MS Gala gift bags which took place on May 2, 2014.
John and Nicole Pagano and their Green Street Pharmacy in Ithaca, New York were highlighted in the Tiny Town News of Ithaca in 2012 for making downtown Ithaca a better place to be. For more information on the Pagano’s pharmacy visit greenstreetpharmacy. com.
1978 Mary Giamartino (fourth from left) and her team at Hotel Pharmacy in Brattleboro, VT are pictured above sporting their ACPHS sunglasses following the Alumni and Friends trip to Fenway Park in 2013.
1984 Way to go! Congratulations to Tracey Rossi who was named Kinney Drugs Favorite Pharmacist of the Year. Harold Lehman was honored by the Boy Scouts of America with the Silver Beaver Award in July 2013. Harold is currently employed by Kinney Drugs in the Health Direct Division.
26
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
1995 Congratulations to Serge Shishik on the opening of his new Saratoga Courage Distillery in Greenfield Center, New York. The distillery specializes in moonshine, vodka and bourbon. Follow Saratoga Courage on Facebook.
2002 Congratulations to Justin Besaw, who recently opened Bonaparte Pharmacy on Main Street in Harrisville, New York filling a void in that community.
2009 Congratulations to Tanya Hadsell and Adam Pitcher who were recently engaged and are planning a June 28, 2014 wedding. Tanya is currently employed as a pharmacist with Arnot Ogden Medical Center.
2011 Sara Siriano and Christopher Curran were united in marriage on May 25, 2013 at St. Helena’s Church in Sherrill, New York. The wedding reception took place at Shenendoah of Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, New York. The couple currently reside in the Capital District and are employed by Hannaford.
2013 Danielle Janiak recently supported the efforts of Dr. Elyse Wheeler as one of the authors of a new pharmacy technician textbook.
FR IENDS WE’LL MISS Alumni
1962
1948
Dominick Matarrese Jr. April 11, 2014
Mary Murphy January 6, 2014
1965
Joan D. (Fox) Jackson April 3, 2014
William C. Leroy Sr. December 14, 2013
1952
Ronald Amedio January 29, 2014
John A. Breault Sr. December 18, 2013
1956 Paul Lanciault October 13, 2013
Leonard D. DeVito Jr. January 7, 2014
1959
1970
Joseph “Jay” V. Walsh, Jr. Walter Wrzesinski November 16, 2013 January 2, 2014
Anthony “Tony” Chiffy March 10, 2014 Ira Howard Rheingold April 4, 2014
| 28
JUL
| 28
AUG
| 02
ALUMNI + FRIENDS
SEP
| 26
ALUMNI + FRIENDS
1969 Mary Kelly Quirk November 18, 2013
ALUMNI + FRIENDS
JUN
1967
William J. Maher December 4, 2013
1960
Events Trip to Yankee Stadium (Boston Red Sox vs. New York Yankees) ALBANY COUNTRY CLUB
21st Annual President’s Cup Golf Tournament
Saratoga Day at the Races
Annual Scholarship Dinner ALBANY CAMPUS
SEP
| 27
Friends of the College
Health Expo Mario Zeolla ’97 5K Walk / Run Alumni Soccer Game For registration details and a complete listing of ACPHS calendar of events visit
John Beeble March 2, 2014
acphs.edu
S U M M E R 2 0 1 4 27
THANK YOU The ACPHS community thanks President Gozzo for 16 years of dedication and service to the College. To join us in thanking Dr. Gozzo send your well wishes to alumni@acphs.edu 28
A C P H S A LU MN I N E WS
V I S I T US ON L I N E AT
acphs.edu
For the latest news about the ACPHS Panthers visit
acphsathletics.com
STAY CON N ECTE D facebook.com/acphs
youtube.com/user/ACPHS1881
acphs.edu/publications
Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Office of Institutional Advancement 106 New Scotland Avenue Albany New York 12208
Permit No. 349 Albany NY
PA I D
Non-Profit Org. US Postage