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.
2026 Award Nominations
The Philadelphia College of Pharmacy will celebrate its founding on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026, at 6 p.m. An important part of the event is the presentation of three alumni awards. All are encouraged to submit a nomination.
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.
The PCP Alumni Award for Excellence in Research recognizes an alum who has made significant and sustained contributions to research in the pharmaceutical, biomedical, clinical or health sciences fields.
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.
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
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.
Schedule of Events
Integrated Professional Education Complex (IPEX)
- 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.
Founders' Day Event Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
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Park in the Goodman lot, between Goodman Hall and the ARC Building.
Enter campus via 42nd Street. The entrance to the parking lot is half way around the loop road - there will be signs out on the day of the event.
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Business casual is recommended.
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We ask all participants to submit registration by Friday, February 14, 2025.
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If you have any concerns please contact MJ Connell at 610-660-2301, 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 MJ Connell at 610-660-2301 to talk about your needs so we can properly accommodate you.