The University of Florida College of Pharmacy’s global impact in the field of clinical pharmacy and pharmacology was on display at the 11th Global Gators meeting that took place in Düsseldorf, Germany, on June 16-17. More than 180 attendees from 11 countries gathered for the biennial meeting that showcases the international Gator spirit in clinical pharmacy and pharmacology. The meeting featured the 11th Symposium on “New Developments in Clinical Pharmacy and Clinical Pharmacology,” with presentations covering research and clinical advancements, as well as an update on the UF College of Pharmacy by Dean Julie Johnson and many other current faculty members. Attendees also enjoyed social events and tours of landmark attractions in Düsseldorf. The meeting was organized by Hartmut Derendorf, Ph.D., distinguished professor and chair of pharmaceutics, together with University of Düsseldorf pharmacy professors and former UF Gators Jörg Breitkreutz, Ph.D., and Stephanie Läer, M.D., Ph.D.
The Global Gator Award, which is presented at the meetings to an individual who represents the Gator spirit internationally, was awarded to Larry Lesko, Ph.D., a professor of pharmaceutics. Lesko was recognized for his contributions to international drug development during his tenure as director of the Office of Clinical Pharmacology at the Food and Drug Administration and his efforts to establish UF’s Center for Pharmacometrics and Systems Pharmacology in Lake Nona. Under his leadership, the center has become a global leader in advancing drug development and regulatory science.