School of Pharmacy ready to celebrate 125 years

What began as an inspiration of several forward-thinking pharmacists throughout the state is now, 125 years later, a national leader in advancing both the practice and science of pharmacy.

Under the leadership of pharmacist and phytochemist F.B. Power, who was armed with an annual budget of $11,000, the first classes were held in South Hall on Bascom Hill at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in the fall of 1883.

Fast forward a quasquicentennial, or 125 years, and UW–Madison is ready to celebrate a milestone in the history of its School of Pharmacy. The celebration kicks off at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 23, with a reception at Rennebohm Hall, 777 Highland Ave.

Several events are being planned throughout 2008 to celebrate the school’s history and tradition of excellence in research, teaching, service, outreach and practice: a student spring bash in mid-April, coupled with the Kremers Lecture; the U.S.-Thai Pharmacy Consortium meeting in mid-July, in which the school will host visitors from 12 Thai schools of pharmacy along with representatives from several U.S. schools; a two-day scientific symposium, including the annual Rennebohm Lecture, in early October; and the Pharmacy Alumni Association (PAA) Reunion Weekend in November.

Banners have been displayed around Rennebohm Hall, and a commemorative publication, display and video have been produced, providing ample opportunities for the public to learn about the school’s evolution.

On the fun side, a Babcock Hall Dairy signature ice cream, Chocolate ApotheCherry, has been created and will be a featured flavor in October, the month in which the school opened its doors. It will also be featured at anniversary events throughout 2008.

The school boasts many "firsts" in the world of pharmaceutical education: the first bachelor of science degree in pharmacy in the U.S.; the first Ph.D. degrees in the U.S. in pharmaceutical chemistry, social studies in pharmacy and pharmaceutical extension; and the first Ph.D. degrees in the world in pharmaceutics, the history of pharmacy and pharmacy administration.

In 1949, Gov. Oscar Rennebohm signed a proclamation recognizing the School of Pharmacy. Rennebohm, a UW–Madison pharmacy alumnus, has been the only pharmacist to serve as Wisconsin governor. That tradition will be honored as current Gov. Jim Doyle will sign a proclamation declaring 2008 "The Year of the School of Pharmacy."

Today’s School of Pharmacy moves boldly forward through the 21st century with groundbreaking discovery and new "firsts" targeted, in one way or another, at improving the health and life of the residents of the state, the nation and the world.