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Tradition, Excellence, and Tomorrow
Celebrate
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Pharmacy students pose with Dean You ng, circa 1900
Celebrate 125 Years The distinguished 125-year history of the Raabe College of Pharmacy is a story of evolution, tradition, excellence and, above all, people. In 1884 when the college was established, it offered a 30-week program to prepare students to pass a state examination newly required by law to work as a druggist. The curriculum and facilities were basic. Tuition was $15 for a 10-week term, and only a handful of students enrolled in the program. Today, the college enrolls more than 1,060 students in a six-year doctorate program that prepares them for a variety of careers in a dynamic industry. The facilities are cutting edge, and the rigorous curriculum includes topics like epidemiology and pharmacogenetics that were unimaginable 125 years ago. And, unfortunately, today $15 won’t even buy one textbook! Through its evolution over a century and a quarter, the college has preserved a tradition of excellence. College of Pharmacy alumni, whether they graduated 100 years ago, 50 years ago, 10 years ago or one year ago, all received a quality and personable education, delivered by dedicated individuals, which prepared them to make a meaningful contribution to society. They all had transformative experiences during their college career in a family-like environment. Their experience included caring professors who shared encouragement and extra time, classmates who became dear friends, a small-town environment that engendered a sense of belonging, and special opportunities that led to personal and professional growth. As the Raabe College of Pharmacy reaches the extraordinary milestone of 125 years, it pays tribute to the many individuals who have made the college what it is today. It celebrates the vision, dedication, passion, community, generosity and success that are such an integral part of the college’s tradition and its tomorrow.
Vision
The Raabe College of Pharmacy’s mission is to mold each student into an outstanding pharmacy professional inspired to make a difference in the lives of others. Guided by visionary leaders, the college continually looks toward the future and strives for greater excellence. It keeps pace with the rapid developments in science, health care, technology and culture, while ensuring its core value of a student-centered program remains unchanged.
Dean Charles S. Ashbrook (1885-1888)
Dean Brigham S. Young (1890-1905)
Dean David C. Mohler (1905-1917)
Dean Rudolph H. Raabe (1917-1950)
Dean Albert C. “Doc” Smith (1950-1962)
Dean Charles O. Lee (1962-1963)
Dean Leroy D. Beltz
Dean Louis D. Vottero
Dean Stephen G. Hoag
Dean Thomas A. Gossel
Dean Bobby G. Bryant
Dean Jon E. Sprague
(1966-1986)
(1986-1987)
(1987-1993)
(1993-1999)
(1999-2006)
(2006-present)
Dean Robert P. Fischelis (1963-1966)
Dean Rudolph H. Raabe Rudolph H. Raabe, PH.G. ’10, Pharm. D. ’30, Hon. D. ’64, for whom the college is named, is the longest-serving dean in the college’s history. Often referred to as “Mr. Pharmacy” and “The Grand Old Man of Ohio Northern,” he undoubtedly educated more pharmacists than any other man in America. Raabe grew up in a small farming community in Putnam County, where he could often be found outdoors reading scientific books. He earned three degrees from ONU and a doctorate from the University of Havana. He taught at the College of Pharmacy for 45 years and spent 33 of those years as dean. His loyalty to Northern was legendary. He wholeheartedly dedicated himself to educating students, even working without a regular salary during the University’s lean years. He once said, “My main objective in teaching was to lay the basic foundation in pharmacy and to keep in mind that these people came to the college so that they could qualify to be registered pharmacists.” In 1972, Max A. Myers, BSPh ’55, wrote in a eulogy that it was hardly adequate to call Raabe a “great man.” “Great seems somehow pretentious when applied to someone we remember as a simple, warm, compassionate and honest man. Dean Raabe certainly didn’t consider himself a great man. Perhaps that helped make him one.”
Dedication
An excellent pharmacy program, ranked as one of the best in the country, stems from a commitment to putting students first. Ohio Northern pharmacy professors, highly qualified and distinguished in their fields, make teaching their top priority. They are dedicated to providing students with a classroom or clinical experience that is challenging, engaging and relevant. They get to know their students on a personal level, encouraging them every step of their journey.
Karen Kier Dr. Karen (Hillegass) Kier, BSPh ’82, sets high expectations for her students, but she does everything in her power to help her students meet them. “By dedicating myself to my students, I know I am helping to make the pharmacy profession better,” she says. “It’s my greatest joy to see my students leave here and do phenomenal work in the field.” During her 22 years at Northern, Kier has also contributed to the profession by serving on pharmacy boards and committees at the local, state and national levels. She is the only pharmacist in Ohio to receive the
highest service awards from both the Ohio Pharmacist Association and The Ohio Society of Health-System Pharmacists. Through her service, Kier stays on top of the latest developments in the field. She loves the challenge of staying current and is always adjusting her course material. As she watches her students develop and mature during their years on campus, she takes satisfaction in knowing that she’s encouraged each one to live up to his or her potential. “We prepare them for a lifetime of practice,” she says. “We pass the torch to them and expect them to go out there and serve patients and health care in new and exciting ways.”
Mike Milks A beloved professor who has been teaching pharmacology courses at ONU for 24 years, Dr. Mike Milks, BSPh ’76, assumes 100 percent of the responsibility for his students’ learning. He’s wildly enthusiastic about the pharmacy field, and he passes that on to his students. “Medicine and chemistry – it just doesn’t get any better than that!” he exclaims. In the classroom, Milks is fun and exuberant, using analogies and sometimes theatrics to make a point. He continually assesses his course material to make sure it is up-to-date and prepares students for the real world. “Everything I teach must give the students some kind of clinical insight to make them a better pharmacist,” he says. “Nothing thrills me more than to see the light bulb come on when a student understands a concept.” Milks is known for never giving up on a student, and he has devoted countless hours to mentoring, tutoring and encouraging. “The students are like our children in a lot of ways,” he says. “Their stumbles and failures are borne with a heavy heart, and their joys and successes become our joys and successes. They are our friends, our protégés and our successors, and we nurture them as much as our own children.”
Passion
Ohio Northern pharmacy students shine with personality. They are well-rounded individuals who are engaged with the world around them. Many are respected leaders on campus, balancing demanding academics with involvement in sports, music, clubs and organizations, and residence halls. Intelligent, insightful and hardworking, Northern pharmacy students are passionate about the profession of pharmacy and determined to reach their full potential in their career and in life.
Gabriel Wash ington Gabriel Washington, class of 2012, has wanted to be a doctor ever since he was a kindergartner. He came to ONU because a doctorate in pharmacy turned out to be the right fit for him. “It’s a way to help so many people,” he says. “A pharmacist has the chance to positively affect the life of someone each and every day.” The third-year pharmacy student from Lorain, Ohio, is an outgoing individual who enjoys connecting with people from all
walks of life. At Northern, he’s established a wide circle of friends as a linebacker on the football team, treasurer of the Black Student Union, a Good News Bear and a member of the Christian Pharmacist Fellowship International and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. A serious student-athlete, Washington willingly devotes every minute of the day to his studies and extracurricular activities, of which football is a favorite. “I enjoy being active and involved. I’ve met a lot of great people and learned a lot,” he says. “I’m making a lifetime of memories at Northern.”
Cynth ia Brucato Cynthia “Cindy” Brucato, class of 2011, has a special ability to listen to others and solve problems. At Northern, her skills have landed her several leadership roles. A fourth-year pharmacy student from Ashland, Ohio, Brucato is head resident for Maglott Hall, where she oversees six resident assistants and 170 freshmen residents. She also is a first-chair violinist for the ONU Symphony Orchestra and co-captain of the women’s Ultimate Frisbee team. “At Northern, you can do as much as you want to do; there are no limitations,” she says. “You can follow all of the passions in your life.” Brucato says she’s grown as a person through her involvement in campus life. “I’ve had to step up because others are counting on me. I’ve become more organized and learned to use my time wisely.” Most importantly, she’s finetuned her ability to listen with compassion and find solutions to problems. These skills will be beneficial to her in the future. Her goal is to one day work as a pharmacist in a pediatric hospital where she can have a direct impact on young patients and their families. “I want to apply my knowledge to help children and parents feel comfortable with treatment options,” she says. “I am always willing to put others before myself.”
Commu nity The Raabe College of Pharmacy is a close-knit community of friends. The familylike environment is evident in the meaningful interactions that take place each day between students and faculty and staff; in the supportive friendships formed between classmates; in the small-town campus setting; and in the connections that continue long after graduation. The Northern pharmacy experience is so personal and powerful, the college can proudly claim multi-generations of family members among its graduates.
Stigliano family
Richard “Dick” Stigliano, BSPh ’58, is an
who invited recent graduates to his home to study for
enthusiastic ONU recruiter. Through the years, he has steered many talented students (including three of his own children) toward the Raabe College of Pharmacy. Stigliano retired over a decade ago after a long career as a retail pharmacist and business owner. He and several partners established 12 pharmacies across Pennsylvania before selling their business in 1994. During his career, Stigliano mentored many young adults interested in becoming pharmacists. He always shared with them
the state boards. “The college was like one big family, and the whole town of Ada was like that, too,” he says. Stigliano was delighted when three of his four children followed in his footsteps by attending Northern. Sons Rick, BSPh ’83, and Randy, BSPh ’85, continued on to medical school and have a family practice together in Hermitage, Pa. Daughter Renee, BSPh ’88, is a retail pharmacist in Hermitage. Randy’s wife, Michele (Mauri), BSPh ’87, also is an alumnae of the college.
his wonderful experiences at Northern. “The classes were small, and the teachers knew you by name,” he says. He still remembers Dean Albert “Doc” Smith
And, the family tradition may continue. “I have several grandchildren who may go to Northern; I couldn’t be happier,” says Stigliano.
Osowski family The Osowski family’s favorite topic of conversation is Ohio Northern University. The family’s ties to the Raabe College of Pharmacy date back to John Brysacz,
after graduation and later married. The Osowskis then convinced all three of their children – Susan (Osowski) Ayers, BSPh ’81, John, BSPh ’82,
each drawn to ONU because it exudes those same old-fashioned values. “A small-town atmosphere, caring professors, the campus is such a nice place,”
BSPh ’31, who owned a Cleveland drugstore where he dispensed medicine, sodas and advice. In the late 1940s,
and Joseph, BSPh ’83, – to attend the College of Pharmacy. “We had such a wonderful experience at
says Helene. Now, the fourth generation of the family, grandson Andrew Osowski, son of John,
he encouraged a young man named Casimir “Casey” Osowski, BSPh ’52, to attend Northern and become a pharmacist. A few years later, his daughter Helene, BSPh ’55, followed the same course. Casey and Helene, who weren’t acquainted in college, met several years
Northern, we knew our kids would too,” says Casey. For the Osowski family, being a pharmacist means having a personal touch. They fondly recall Brysacz’s welcoming, neighborhood drugstore where customers were known by name and treated with care. They were
is attending the Raabe College of Pharmacy. “We truly feel that Ohio Northern is a part of our family,” says Helene.
Generosity Northern pharmacy friends and alumni recognize that an education is one of the greatest gifts in life. Through their generosity, they enable future generations of students to receive the same opportunities for a quality education that they were given. Their financial gifts build or refurbish advanced facilities, provide scholarships and interest-free student loans, and other areas of support strengthen the academic program. By giving back, Northern pharmacy alumni and friends ensure a bright future for an institution close to their hearts.
Kenny Walkup Inspired by his experiences as a Northern pharmacy student, Kenny Walkup, BSPh ’92, became an entrepreneur. “My ONU education was fantastic,” he says. “I graduated well equipped for the real world.” Walkup is the owner and operator of Specialty Medicine Compounding Pharmacy in South Lyon, Mich., which makes customized medications for people and animals. Whether creating prescription popsicles for a child with a strong gag reflex, or a prescription ear gel for a tiny kitten, Walkup enjoys the challenges that each day brings. “I solve problems and think outside the box to help patients,” he says. “I love being in business for myself.” Walkup is grateful for several mentors who
helped him along his career path. Inspired by their example, he helps future pharmacists achieve their dreams. He shares his knowledge of compounding medicines by serving as a clinical preceptor for students at Ohio Northern and the University of Michigan. He and his wife, Michelle (Smith), BSPh ’92, also support the College of Pharmacy with financial gifts. “I was a lucky beneficiary of the Pierstorf Scholarship; it made me realize the importance of giving,” he says. “Those before me set the foundation that enabled me to attend Northern, and I need to make sure that those behind me get the same opportunity.”
Th e Donaldsons
Doug, BSPh ’97, and Adrienne (Wood) Donaldson, BSPh ’99, credit the Raabe College of Pharmacy for opening the doors to their careers in pharmacy technology. They fondly recall several professors who helped them develop communication and networking skills that now prove invaluable
in Columbus, Ohio. Today, they continue to work together at McKesson Pharmacy Systems in Pittsburgh, Pa., helping retail pharmacy chains and outpatient pharmacies assess technology needs and implement technology solutions. “We are having an impact on the industry because, by helping our
the Pharmacy Skills Center, they made a leadership gift and encouraged their company to donate its software technology. They also were instrumental in implementing the system and providing training. “We are donors because we understand the value of a good education, and we are invigorated by
in their jobs. “We had many ‘ah-ha’ moments as students that laid the foundation for where we are now,” says Adrienne. The Donaldsons, who married in 2004, became acquainted after graduating from Northern when both worked at Drug Emporium
customers with technology solutions, we are helping many pharmacists serve their patients better,” says Doug. The Donaldsons generously share their time and treasure with Northern because they are excited about its future. When they learned about
the direction the college is going in,” Adrienne explains. Doug agrees. “Northern is aiming for great things, and we want to be a part of it.”
Success
Throughout Ohio and the country, Northern pharmacy alumni make important contributions to the pharmaceutical field. As products of a comprehensive education that blends liberal arts and sciences, professional training, extracurricular activities and service components, they are life-long learners who excel in many roles. They are confident, competent and compassionate professionals and leaders who define success in terms of service to others.
Jay Meyer At ONU, Jay Meyer, BSPh ’82, learned about discipline and hard work by juggling academics with being an all-conference performer on the men’s basketball team. “I attribute my success in the business world to my five years at ONU,” he says. “It established a solid foundation for me.” Meyer is president and COO of Remedi SeniorCare in Covington, Ohio, a provider of pharmacy services for senior health care facilities in several states. He enjoys meeting the health care needs of the elderly population. “Looking back, what drove me to become a pharmacist was the chance to make a difference in people’s lives,”
he says. Today, Meyer is impacting the lives of future pharmacists by sharing his time and talent with ONU. He mentors high school and college students, serves on the advisory board of the College of Pharmacy and gives annual donations. His strong Christian faith and appreciation for those who helped him and his wife, Lori (Kinnison), BA ’83, through troubling times are his inspiration for giving back. “I haven’t forgotten where I came from,” he says, recalling how his ONU education put him on the path to success. “I want to do whatever I can to help today’s students learn better and become better at their profession. You can’t underestimate the power of an education.”
Th e Turners Jim, BSPh ’63, and Mary Ann (Gardner) Turner, BSPh ’63, believe the quality of your life is determined by the quality of your relationships. “Good friends lead to happiness,” says Jim. Through the years,
Gardner, BSPh ’21, in 1969 and operated the store for 37 years. Their business philosophy was to always take care of the customer, even if it meant waking up at 3 a.m. to fill an emergency prescription or making home deliveries to the elderly. The Turners weren’t just kindly business owners, though; they were caring teachers as well. For over 20 years,
Northern pharmacy interns. In addition, the Turners provided internship opportunities for many students at their store. “We enjoyed working with young people,” says Mary Ann. “It kept us young.” Jim adds, “I hope in some small way we had a positive influence on their development.” Today, when the Turners encounter Northern pharmacy alumni at
they’ve made friends with an untold number of customers and Northern pharmacy students as owners of Gardner’s Drug Store in Ada. The Turners purchased the store from Mary Ann’s father, Burke
Mary Ann worked at ONU’s Student Health Pharmacy, filling prescriptions and instructing pharmacy students, while Jim, a faculty member, traveled all across the state and beyond to oversee
professional conferences and alumni gatherings, there is always instant recognition and shared community. “Graduates live all over the country, from Vermont to California, but they still maintain that Ada-Northern connection,” says Jim.
Tomorrow
The Raabe College of Pharmacy’s future is as promising as its past is inspiring. In the coming years, pharmacists will be needed to take on new and expanded roles in the health care system. With a studentcentered program, outstanding faculty and top-notch facilities, the college is positioned to continue as a national leader in educating pharmacy professionals to serve in the 21st century.
Skills Center
Drug Information Center
The Pharmacy Skills Center, which opened in 2007, is an innovative, hands-on learning laboratory with 2,400 square feet of simulated community and clinical pharmacy space. Students practice patient care at the center, learning about medication therapy, patient counseling, compounding chemicals and drug information.
In conjunction with the opening of the Skills Center, the Drug Information Center was renovated. The Center is staffed by one full-time pharmacist and 25 student pharmacists who respond to questions about medications and medical conditions from health care professionals and consumers.
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Since 1989, over half of the presidents of the Ohio years ofPharmacists excellence Association haveVE N OR I THERN UN been Ohio Northern University graduates, highlighting the Raabe College of Pharmacy’s strength in professional leadership development. SI
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Collaborative Practice Agreements with industry partners enable faculty members to stay active in the ever-changing world of pharmacy practice. Professors interested in inpatient or outpatient care can spend one day a week in a real-world setting such as a hospital or retail pharmacy. They bring their experiences back to the classroom, energizing their teaching.
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The Mathile Center for the Natural Sciences, which opens in 2009, is a state-of-the-art academic research and learning facility for the biological, physical and allied health sciences. Offering advanced technology in a modern environment, the center furthers teaching excellence. The three-story center features 21 classrooms, five seminar rooms, 21 laboratories, and offices and storage space. It connects the Meyer Hall of Science with the Robertson-Evans Pharmacy building.
Collaborative Practice Agreem ents
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has quadrupled. Faculty members have garnered significant research dollars, including a $247,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health to study the toxicological effects of the club drug Ecstasy.
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Grant-funded research projects enable faculty members to closely collaborate with students while engaging in noteworthy research. Faculty members stay active in their field, students are exposed to new career avenues, and the reputation of the college is advanced. In the last two years, the number of grant applications submitted by pharmacy faculty members
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Research
With the support of alumni and friends, the College continues to build The Pharmacy Skills Enrichment Fund, which assists current and future students in their preparation for service to the profession. The fund provides enhanced learning opportunities for students that would otherwise not be possible. Many of these opportunities are partnership efforts between faculty, staff, alumni, and friends of the College.
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Pharmacy Skills Enrichm ent Fu nd
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History
A Brief History of th e Raabe College of Pharmacy The village of Ada in the 1880s may have seemed a most unlikely site to start a college of pharmacy. The community of approximately 2,000 individuals, with its dirt streets and modest homes, certainly didn’t reflect the cosmopolitan lifestyle and modern enterprise available in larger towns and cities. However, Ada was actually the perfect site! Situated on a major rail line connecting Pittsburgh and Chicago, the village was only a two-hour train ride west from Crestline, east from Fort Wayne, north from Columbus and south from Toledo and Sandusky. Ada, thus, had easy access from all directions.
Burke Gardner, Proprietor of Gardner’s Drug Store in Ada, circa mid-1940s
Moreover, its citizens warmly welcomed the new college in 1884 as further evidence of the growing success of Henry Solomon Lehr’s North-Western Ohio Normal School (name later changed to Ohio Northern University), which had opened a little over a decade earlier. They housed the students and fed them by means of boarding clubs and rooming houses. They provided nursing care when needed and saw to the students’ physical and emotional needs. What might have been viewed as a potential failure of gigantic proportion in the making 125 years ago, the new college was, instead, graciously accepted as a benefit to the community, University and pharmacy profession.
Students liked what the institution provided: a solid education that would help them pass the state’s new licensure examination and equip them for success in their chosen profession. They came in droves. In less than 10 years, enrollment in pharmacy had increased, and a new two-story frame structure was erected on Gilbert Street (near the southwest corner of the present Lehr Memorial Building) for the college’s use; it was occupied in August 1894. In 1909, the building was moved about one-half block north to the southeast corner of Gilbert Street and University Avenue and remodeled to accommodate the growing program. It was unusual in those days for pharmacy programs to have buildings of their own. Northern’s facility obviously made a favorable impression and, no doubt, helped establish its pharmacy program as being top-notch. The building served its purpose well until 1934 when the college had expanded beyond its present facility and moved into the more spacious quarters of Dukes Memorial. Today, the college is housed in a modern building spanning more than 68,000 square feet of space. With 39 full-time faculty and staff, the college’s teaching sites are not limited to the Ada campus. Students complete their externships and rotations in 44 states and eight countries.
Curriculum
The early pharmacy curriculum totaled 30 weeks. Coursework included Theoretical Pharmacy, Theoretical and Practical Chemistry, Botany, Materia Medica and Toxicology. Courses were taught by local physicians. Since none were pharmacists, an Ada druggist, Charles Ashbrook, was appointed the first instructor in pharmacy and the college’s first dean. A popular teacher and active supporter of the Ohio State Pharmaceutical Association, Ashbrook later chaired the committee that formulated the pharmacist’s code of ethics for the state of Ohio. Ashbrook was followed by a succession of capable individuals who taught professional courses and served the college as dean, individuals who were recognized nationally for their contributions to the pharmacy profession. One, Dr. Rudolph H. Raabe, PH.G. ’10, Pharm. D. ’30, Hon. D. ’64, began his teaching career in 1910 and served the college until 1955; 33 of those years were as dean. No wonder he is still fondly referred to as “Mr. Pharmacy” and “The Grand Old Man of Ohio Northern.” It was said upon his retirement that Dean Raabe undoubtedly educated more pharmacists than any other man in America. Named in his honor, the Raabe College of Pharmacy pays homage to its beloved professor and dean who spent his entire professional life to make Ohio Northern’s program what it is today.
Degrees The various degrees awarded by the college have reflected specific needs for the time. The pharmaceutical graduate (PH.G.) degree was awarded initially for the one-year (30-week) program, then later for the two-year course of study. A second degree, pharmaceutical chemist (PH.C.) was at first granted for the two-year and later for the threeyear course. It was used chiefly at ONU from 1928 to 1935, becoming obsolete with the adoption of the four-year bachelor of science in pharmacy (BSPh) degree. Students entering the college in 1960 pursued a five-year curriculum leading to their degree. Those entering after July 1, 2000, pursued the six-year doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) curriculum. One can imagine that Ashbrook, even in his wildest imagination, could never have believed that his 30-week program, adequate for 1884, would one day expand to 198 weeks!
Challenges & Opportu nity The road leading to the college’s current status included a number of bumps along the way. Even though its enrollment often exceeded student numbers reported in the other colleges of pharmacy in Ohio, available funds to support its program during its first 80 years were often sparse. Because Ohio Northern is a church-affiliated institution, the College of Pharmacy received no state support. Moreover, throughout those eight decades, tuition remained unimaginably low. The decision to provide quality education at a minimum cost was an important part of Lehr’s passion for all who would come. To this
must be added the economic crisis associated with America’s Great Depression beginning in 1929 and continuing until 1941, followed by dwindling numbers of students during World War II. This scarcity of funds often meant delaying purchase of equipment and supplies and updating accommodations, which led to loss of accreditation in summer 1965. Although devastating to college personnel at the time, this low point in its history was, in retrospect, the turning point in its evolution. Realization that the college might have to cease operation initiated the momentum that positioned it for the unprecedented achievement and growth that continues today. Alumni stepped forward to support the college they loved. Industry pumped money into the program. The college faculty, quick to acknowledge what was happening and grasp its potential for turnabout, accepted the challenge with renewed vigor, adding additional members to its ranks. A new library was constructed and its holdings greatly expanded to support the pharmacy program. The University was able to secure funding for what would soon develop into the west-campus basic science complex. Most importantly, students refused to stay away! They could see the potential for the revitalized college that would emerge, and they enrolled in great numbers. With the opening of academic year 2008-09, the Raabe College of Pharmacy at Ohio Northern welcomed 1,069 students.
A Facility for th e 21st Century A long shared dream of Deans Raabe, Smith and Lee, the prospect of expanding the college’s physical plant began to clarify following the challenge to its accreditation status. Construction began at once on a new pharmacy building. With generous gifts from two alumni, pharmacists James D. Robertson, PH.G. 1898, and Thomas J. Evans, BSPh 1894, the 47,920-square-feet Robertson-Evans Pharmacy Building was occupied in the spring of 1966. The 3,000-square-feet Pierstorf Annex was added in 1995, and the Hakes-Pierstorf Family Pharmacy Education Center, with 17,300 additional square feet, was completed in 2006.
Looking A h ead It has been said that the best way to assess an institution’s future is by studying its past. During its 125 years, Ohio Northern’s College of Pharmacy has graduated more than 8,200 men and women who have contributed in no small way to improved health care delivery throughout Ohio and the nation. This has been possible because of the college’s zeal for superb teaching and the continued generous support of alumni and friends. So long as that commitment remains at highest priority, the college can well expect to serve its constituency for another 125 years and beyond.
1871
Th e Raabe College
of Pharmacy Historical Tim eline
Henry S. Lehr establishes the Northwestern Ohio Normal School in the village of Johnstown, later to be renamed Ada.
1871-2009
1884
1885
In response to recently enacted legislation requiring that persons who wish to work as pharmacists in Ohio must first pass an examination, Lehr announces the opening of a department of pharmacy to help students prepare for their examination. The exact curriculum is not yet determined, but is expected to extend over a period of thirty weeks. By 1886-87 the term will expand to forty weeks.
Charles S. Ashbrook, an Ada druggist, is appointed the pharmacy program’s first instructor and dean. (1885-88). Ashbrook will later chair a committee that formulates the pharmacist’s code of ethics for the state of Ohio.
1887 The first degrees (Pharmaceutical Graduate – PH.G.) in pharmacy are awarded.
1885 The institution’s name is changed from Northwestern Ohio Normal School to Ohio Normal University to reflect that students represent all geographic areas of the state.
1917
1926
Rudolph H. Raabe PH.G. 1910, Hon.D ’64 is appointed dean (1917-50), after having served on the faculty of the college since 1910. Dean Raabe will serve 33 years in this capacity. Following retirement he will be appointed Dean Emeritus and return to teaching through academic year 1954-55, completing 45 years of service to pharmacy at ONU.
The second floor of the pharmacy building is remodeled and converted into a dispensary and large classroom.
1932 All first-time students registering for academic year 1932-33, and thereafter, shall require four full years of study. The bachelor of science in pharmacy degree will be awarded at ONU through 1964.
1890
1903
1906
Brigham S. Young, M 1882, PH.G. 1890 a native of Ada, teaches during the 1889-90 school year. He remains on as an instructor and second head of the pharmacy program and brings to it needed stability (1890-1905).
The institution’s name is changed from Ohio Normal University to Ohio Northern University since the term “Normal” is descriptive of education of teachers for the public school system. The newer name reflects major academic changes underway. The name change also preserves the designation “ONU.”
By academic year 1906-07, two years of study (termed junior and senior years) are required for the PH.G. degree and three years are required for the Pharmaceutical Chemist (PH.C.) degree. The Pharmaceutical Doctor (Pharm D) degree is also listed in the catalogue. Completion of the degree requires about 20 weeks of additional study.
1894 The pharmacy program expands rapidly. The first building to house the department, a modest wood structure, is occupied in August 1894. Pharmacy has exclusive use of the first floor.
1905
1909 The pharmacy building is moved approximately one-half block to the southeast corner of Gilbert Street and University Avenue. The structure is remodeled with laboratories in the basement, along with recitation rooms and offices on the first floor.
David C. Mohler, PH.G. 1894 is appointed the third instructor and dean. (1905-1917).
1934
1943
1944
1950
The pharmacy building has become an eyesore and potential fire trap and is abandoned. The college moves into Dukes Memorial located on the northwest
World War II is taking its toll on enrollment, and this year marks a bleak era in ONU’s history, with only 156 students enrolled University-wide. The College of
The Serviceman’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (i.e., “GI Bill of Rights”) is enacted, which will pay a government stipend to exservicemen to help defray costs
Albert C. (“Doc” dean after servi following the re Raabe (1950-62
corner of Main Street and College Avenue, which it shares with departments of mathematics and chemistry. The old pharmacy building will be razed in 1937.
Pharmacy will graduate 18 in 1943, followed by six, five and five, respectively, in 1944, 1945 and 1946.
of a college education. By 1948, the class size at ONU (including pharmacy) swells to 1,209.
1911 College rivalry between engineering and pharmacy students has escalated over the years to the point that a committee of students from both colleges decide on a hatchet-burial ceremony. The event will be celebrated by burying a hatchet in the campus lawn. The tradition will continue each year, with hatchets buried in the campus lawn, until the final ceremony in November 1929.
”) Smith is appointed ing as acting dean etirement of Dean 2).
1951
1951
1952
1956
Work is underway in 1951 to add a small addition to Dukes Memorial. The lower floor will contain restrooms with the upper floors providing for
In preparation for college accreditation, students organize and undertake a massive cleanup and renovation of Dukes
The Ampul, official publication of the College of Pharmacy, is inaugurated in spring 1952, with Volume 1, Issue 1.
The college is accredited through the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education, receiving an “A” (i.e., first-class) rating.
housing of laboratory animals used in teaching courses such as pharmacology, biology and physiology.
Memorial. The project will span more than two weeks with work often continuing until 2 a.m.
The college has operated to this point with a “C” (i.e., temporary standing; standards need to be raised) rating.
Thank you The support of alumni and friends has provided the foundation for the rich tradition of excellence and is key in providing the prospect of an even greater tomorrow for the Raabe College of Pharmacy at Ohio Northern University. Your continued support of the Raabe College of Pharmacy is greatly needed and very much appreciated.
Special thanks to Dean Emeritus Tom Gossel, BSPh ’63 for his time and talent in the authorship and assistance with the history of the Raabe College of Pharmacy. Tom and his wife Phyllis (Black) Gossel, BSEd ’63 reside in Ada.
Produced under the auspices of Ohio Northern University’s Office of Communications and Marketing. Designer: Jeni Bible, JB Design Solutions Editor/Writer: Laurie Wurth Pressel Photography: Ken Colwell
1960
1966
1973
Students entering the college of pharmacy as freshmen in 1960 are met with an extended curriculum requiring five years of study.
LeRoy D. Beltz, Hon.D. ’79, succeeds Robert Fischelis as dean. (1966-86)
The pharmacy faculty is undertaking a critical review of the curriculum to facilitate addition of a clinical component. This review initiates the “era of clinical pharmacy” at ONU,
1962 Charles O. Lee, professor of pharmacy at ONU, is appointed interim dean (1962-63).
2000 All students entering the college of pharmacy beginning in July 2000 are met with a new curriculum requiring six years of study, with the doctor of pharmacy degree awarded for its completion.
which will position the college for service well into the future.
1963 Robert P. Fischelis, Hon.D. ’79, is appointed dean. (1963-66).
1965 An accreditation inspection team from the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education examines the college in March 1965. The team recommends that accreditation be withheld until certain conditions are met. Probational accreditation is granted later in 1965, with full accreditation restored in 1969.
1966 The new pharmacy building, the first structure erected in ONU’s westcampus basic science complex, is occupied. The new building is named for two prominent pharmacy graduates, James D. Robertson, PH.G. 1898, and Thomas J. Evans, BSPh, 1894.
1974 The college experiences rapid growth in the number of female students such that, by 1982, more than half of its graduates are female, a trend that continues to this date.
2006
2006
The Hakes-Pierstorf Family Pharmacy Education Center is completed. This 17,300-square-foot addition to the pharmacy building, provided by Dr. Vern Hakes, PH.C. ’33, Hon.D.’ 76, and Dr. Ervin Pierstorf, ‘53, Hon.D. ’78 and his wife, Florence, brings much needed space and updated facilities to the college program.
Jon E. Sprague is appointed dean and serves to the present. Dr. Vern Hakes Dr. Ervin Pierstorf
1986
1990
1995
Louis D. Vottero is appointed interim dean upon Dean Beltz’s death (1986-87).
The Pharmacy-Law Institute, a collaborative effort between the Colleges of Pharmacy and Law, is established.
The Pierstorf Annex and Pharmacy Museum is added to the Robertson-Evans Pharmacy Building, named in honor of Dr. Ervin Pierstorf, ‘53, Hon.D. ’78 and his wife, Florence, and Dr. Clarence Pierstorf, Hon.D. ’90.
1991
1987 Stephen G. Hoag is appointed dean (1987-93).
1997
The college initiates two new programs. Students can enroll in a six-year program that leads to the doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) degree or remain in the traditional five-year program. Students can also enroll in a joint pharmacy-law degree program that permits them to complete both pharmacy and law degrees in seven years.
ONU’s College of Pharmacy is the first of Ohio’s colleges to offer the external (i.e., non-traditional) doctor of pharmacy degree program. The program enables pharmacists to earn the PharmD degree concurrent with continuing their full-time work schedules.
1993
1999
Thomas A. Gossel, BSPh ’63, professor of pharmacology and assistant dean, is appointed interim dean in 1993 and dean in 1994 (1993-99).
Bobby G. Bryant is appointed dean. (1999-2006).
2009 The College of Pharmacy at Ohio Northern University celebrates its 125th anniversary, having graduated more than 8,200 pharmacists during its century and a quarter of service.
2007 A 2,400-square-foot Pharmacy Skills Center is opened and the Drug Information Center is renovated on the first floor of the Robertson-Evans Pharmacy Building. The Skills Center provides cutting-edge opportunities for students to apply their coursework to pharmacy practice situations. The Drug Information Center provides responses to questions about medications and medical conditions from health care professionals and consumers.