DEAR FRIENDS:
As I begin to get settled into my new position as the ninth dean of the UI College of Pharmacy, I am struck by the profound impact our College has had on virtually all dimensions of the profession. Its outstanding methods of educational delivery, commitment to high professional ideals, quest for new knowledge through discovery, tireless dedication to meeting the needs of the public through civic engagement and outreach, and the persistent desire to pursue high quality patient care all serve to underscore the rich tradition of excellence that has come to symbolize our College.
I am confident that in reviewing the contents of this report you too will be struck by the many ways in which our students, faculty, and staff continue to contribute to our legacy of excellence. This year our report focuses on building relationships. Like any thriving enterprise, meaningful relationships are essential. The report is replete with examples of our long-standing commitment to collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches to research, education, and patient care delivery.
And our relationships are not confined to the borders of our great country. Indeed you will note that as a ‘global enterprise’ our College has built bridges to institutions in many different lands. These relationships provide unique opportunities for our students and faculty and permit us to help our colleagues in pharmacy around the world to address critical infrastructure needs and build capacity for self-sustaining programs.
The success of any college is most often measured in the achievements of its alumni. To that end, we can deservedly be proud. It is clear that for so many of our alumni the relationships forged during the college years continue to flourish. In my meetings with alumni I have been regaled with Hawkeye stories of days gone by and have learned first-hand the outstanding achievements of so many. I look forward to strengthening those relationships, building friendships and partnerships with many more of our alumni, and continuing to learn of the successes and accomplishments of the thousands of graduates that once called the UI College of Pharmacy their educational home.
In closing, permit me, please, to call attention to the ‘laying the foundation’ segment of the report. Our ability to sustain a high level of success will be predicated on a sound program of philanthropy. In this regard, we have much to be thankful for. This past year witnessed an unprecedented level of giving among our alumni and friends. To all those who supported the efforts of the College of Pharmacy through your generosity, I extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you. Your investment will bear tremendous fruit in the future and provide the resources necessary to help us forge new relationships thereby benefiting the entire College family…students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
Professionally yours,
Donald E. Letendre
Dean and Professor