Celebrating 100 Years of Empowered Pharmacists

For 100 years, Duquesne University’s School of Pharmacy has been a leader in shaping bold, innovative and compassionate pharmacists who make a lasting impact in healthcare. As we celebrate our Centennial, we honor a century of excellence, discovery and service—recognizing the generations of graduates who have advanced patient care and redefined the role of pharmacists as essential healthcare providers who serve all patients.

This milestone marks more than just a moment in history; it celebrates the Age of the Empowered Pharmacist—an era in which Duquesne-trained professionals continue to lead, adapt and advocate for better health outcomes. Through horizon-expanding education, hands-on experiences and a deep commitment to serving others, our graduates are prepared to transform the pharmacy profession for the next century.

 

Save The Date: Hug Lecture Series

Join us to continue our centennial celebration as we learn together about innovation and leadership in pharmacy. Save the date for the Carl C. Hug Jr., B.S. Pharm., M.D. Distinguished Lecture Series on April 10, 2026.

Red Ring of Honor Nominations

We are now accepting nominations for the Red Ring of Honor Award, the highest level of recognition bestowed by our School. This prestigious award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements and contributions across several key areas:

  • Professional Achievement
  • Contribution to the Field
  • Service and Leadership
  • Ethics and Professionalism

We invite you to nominate a deserving alumnus who embodies these values and has made a significant impact in his or her professional and personal endeavors. This is your chance to shine a spotlight on those who have gone above and beyond, setting exemplary standards for all.

Your participation in this process is invaluable, as it helps us recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements of alumni within our community. Let’s come together to honor those who have made a lasting difference and continue to inspire us all.

Nomination Process

  • A formal nomination form that includes detailed information about the nominee's achievements and contributions outlining why the nominee deserves to be inducted into the Hall of Distinction/Achievement
  • Supporting Documentation: CV or resume, letter of recommendation

The nomination deadline is December 31, 2025.

Professional Achievement

  • Demonstrated a long-term, sustained commitment and success in the field of pharmacy or pharmaceutical research.
  • Significant advancement in their career, including promotions, leadership roles, or noteworthy projects.
  • Contributions to the development of new methods, products, or practices within the pharmacy or pharmaceutical sciences fields.

Contribution to the Field

  • Published influential research papers, articles, or books that have contributed to the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences.
  • Holds patents or has made significant discoveries in the field of pharmacy.
  • Presented posters, podium presentations, or on panels at conferences
  • Received awards, honors, or recognitions from reputable professional organizations in the field.

Service and Leadership

  • Professional Organizations: Active involvement in professional organizations related to pharmacy, including leadership positions or board memberships.
  • Mentorship: Actively mentored student pharmacists, pharmacy interns, or young professionals.
  • Community Engagement: Involvement in community service or public health initiatives.

Ethics and Professionalism

  • Upholds the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

Alumni Success Stories

 

dean drennen and stephanie rouse speaking

Stephanie Rouse, GP'02

As a Duquesne pharmacy student, Stephanie Rouse, GP’02, fell in love with the idea of becoming a community-based pharmacist. Now she’s helping others pursue that same dream. As the retail resident/intern development director for CVS Pharmacy, Rouse is teaming up with her alma mater on a new program to help train and educate the next generation of pharmacists.

Read More
letrent family

The Letrent Family

When Richard “Dick” Letrent, P’58, graduated from Duquesne in 1958, he had no idea how many times he and his wife Connie (Dzmura), P’58, would return to the Bluff. Five children and six grandchildren later, they still find themselves drawn to the University where their career paths started.

Learn Their History
renee richardson

Renee Richardson, GP'09

For Renee Richardson, GP’09, the journey to her fulfilling career in pharmacy was guided by a deep-rooted desire to help people and make a positive impact on her community. Drawing strength from her interactions with others, Richardson’s passion for health care and community service has led her to excel in her field and carve out her own unique career path as a pharmacist.

Learn Her Story

Get Involved

deans standing together

Give

Support our students and the next century of innovation in Pharmacy.

student and alumnus networking

Volunteer

Help plan and promote our 100th anniversary celebration.

centennial attendees listening to a speech

Celebrate

Relive the unforgettable moments from our Centennial Celebration—a historic milestone that brought together generations of alumni, faculty, students and friends.

The Centennial Gala did not disappoint. It was so nice to see so many alumni and know that they all have made a difference in the world, because they came from Duquesne.

George and Donna Keiser
Rocky Bleier, Tina Rozic, and Matt Rozic with Super Bowl rings

The event was extra special as I was able to attend the weekend with my mother, Tina, who is also a Duquesne Pharmacy graduate from the Class of 1991. This event gave me the opportunity to meet all of her friends and put a face to the stories and memories my mother would share with me.

Matthew Rozic