Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia College of Pharmacy Founders' Day
Thursday, February 19, 2026
On Feb. 23, 1821, a group of 68 apothecaries convened at Carpenters’ Hall in Philadelphia to “advance the character and forward the interest of the profession” and established the Philadelphia College of Apothecaries. These visionaries set in motion the creation of the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, launching an institution with a meaningful, relevant and enduring future.
All are invited to campus to celebrate Saint Joseph’s Philadelphia College of Pharmacy Founders’ Day as we commemorate its 1821 founding.
Schedule of Events
Integrated Professional Education Complex (IPEX)
University City Campus
- 5 p.m. Student-led tours of Griffith Hall and the Marvin Samson Museum for the History of Pharmacy.
- 6 p.m. Welcome and Registration
- 6:30 p.m. Program and Presentation of Awards
- 7 p.m. Reception - heavy appetizers, open bar and additional tours and demonstrations.
Register Now
$15
2026 Awardees
Cornelius D. Pitts '73,'04(PHARMD)
The William Procter Jr. Award honors the legacy of William Procter Jr., a PCP graduate, faculty member and widely regarded as the Father of American Pharmacy. This award, the highest honor bestowed by the college, recognizes an outstanding alum whose leadership, innovation and service reflect the entrepreneurial spirit of the founding fathers and the enduring values of the college. Congratulations to Cornelius Pitts '73, '04(PHARMD)
Thomas S. Franko '11(PHARMD)
The PCP Young Alumni Award honors an alum who received a degree within the past 15 years and has demonstrated outstanding promise and success in their professional career. Congratulations Thomas S. Franko '11(PHARMD)
Dr. James E. Polli, '89, Ph.D.
The PCP Alumni Research Award recognizes an alum who has made significant and sustained contributions to research in the pharmaceutical, biomedical, clinical or health sciences fields. Congratulations Dr. James E. Polli, '89
2025 Award Recipients
Dr. Jamie (Wall) Kerestes, PharmD '11- Young Alumni Award
Dr. Patricia (Clancy) Kienle '75 - William Procter Jr. Award
2024 Award Recipients
Dr. Michael Dejos, PharmD '13 - Young Alumni Award
Dr. John Gans, PharmD '69 - William Procter Jr. Award
George E. Downs, PharmD '72, Dean Emeritus - Special Recognition of Service
2023 Award Recipients
Dr. Jack Korbutov, PharmD '11, FACA, FACVP - Young Alumni Award
Congratulations to Dr. Korbutov as the first recipient of the PCP Young Alumni Award.
Dr. Daniel Hussar, P'62, MS'64, PhD'67 - William Procter Jr. Award
Congratulations to Dr. Hussar, Dean Emeritus and Remington Professor on being named the inaugural recipient of the William Procter Jr. Medal.
Founders' Day Event Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
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Enter campus from 42nd Street and follow Loop Road. Continue around the bend until you see the entrance to the parking lot on your left. Please park in the lot off Loop Road near Building 4.
The event will be held in the Integrated Professional Education Complex (IPEX) Building #4.
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Business casual is recommended.
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We ask all participants to submit registration by Friday, February 13, 2026.
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If you have any concerns please contact Lynn Langnas at 610-660-3467, so we may ensure all our guests feel welcome and comfortable during the event.
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Options will be offered for individuals with special dietary needs. Contact Lynn Langnas at 610-660-3467 to talk about your needs so we can properly accommodate you.