Zirl A. Palmer
Zirl A. Palmer was an African American businessman and activist based in Lexington, Kentucky, known for his significant contributions to the community. In 1952, he opened Palmer’s Pharmacy, which became the city’s first Black-owned pharmacy. Facing segregation, Palmer created a welcoming space by introducing a soda fountain luncheonette and actively engaged in community outreach.
Palmer’s business acumen extended beyond traditional pharmacy services. To attract customers, he annually produced a popular Palmer Pharmacy calendar featuring photographs of the local Black community. In 1961, he constructed a mid-century modern building to house Palmer’s Pharmacy, Luncheonette, and Doctor’s Office, marking it as the first Black-owned Rexall franchise.
Born in Bluefield, West Virginia, Palmer overcame barriers to education and attended Xavier University of Louisiana College of Pharmacy. He played a key role in founding a student branch of the American Pharmaceutical Association at Xavier, serving as its first president and contributing to the student newspaper.
Beyond his business success, Palmer was deeply involved in civic activities, including the NAACP, Chamber of Commerce, and Planned Parenthood. He was a member of various organizations, such as the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights, the Optimist Club, and Big Brothers.
Palmer faced adversity when his pharmacy on Georgetown Street was bombed by the Ku Klux Klan in 1968. Despite the tragedy, he remained active in the community, serving on the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees and contributing to various initiatives.
Following the bombing, Palmer retired and sold his businesses to protect his family. He continued his community involvement until his passing.
Reference: https://tourthehistoricbluegrass.com/items/show/11#&gid=1&pid=1https://pharmacy.uky.edu/news/zirl-palmer-pharmacist-and-advocate-african-american-community-lexington
Mary Munson Runge
Mary Munson Runge, born in 1928 in Donaldsville, LA., hailed from a family of pioneers, with her father being the town’s inaugural pharmacist. Following her graduation from Xavier University in 1948, she embarked on a career in California. Initially, Runge served as a hospital pharmacist in the Bay Area for 21 years before transitioning to a community practice, mirroring her father’s commitment to aiding underprivileged residents in obtaining essential medications.
In 1979, Runge achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first woman and first African American president of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), initiating efforts to enhance the representation of women and minorities within the profession. Her impactful two-term presidency concluded in 1981, yet she persisted in her exceptional contributions, balancing family life and serving as a mentor to fellow pharmacists.
After Runge’s passing in 2014, APhA commemorated her legacy by establishing a scholarship in her name. This annual scholarship is awarded to APhA student members, underscoring her enduring impact on the field and commitment to fostering inclusivity.