Executive Committee

The International Society for the History of Pharmacy Launches Three New Working Groups

The ISHP is excited to announce the launch of three new working groups, set to begin in 2025. Introduced during the 46th General Assembly in Belgrade last September, these initiatives underscore our dedication to advancing pharmacy history and fostering meaningful engagement with scholars and the broader public.

1. Working Group on Women in Pharmacy History
This working group aims to highlight the remarkable contributions of women pharmacists across the globe, bringing long-overdue recognition to their achievements. We are proud to have Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vilma Gudiene, ISHP Vice President and a respected pharmacy historian from Lithuania, leading this effort. Renowned for her acclaimed publications in the field, Dr. Gudiene brings exceptional passion and expertise to this initiative. Under her guidance, we look forward to innovative projects that will illuminate the vital roles women have played in shaping pharmacy history.

2. Working Group on Pharmacy Museums and Historical Collections
Pharmacy museums and their collections offer invaluable insights into the evolution of the profession. This working group aims to strengthen connections between pharmacy museums and the wider academic community. We are pleased to announce that Prof. Dr. Adriana Taerel, President of the Romanian Society for the History of Pharmacy, has graciously accepted the role of coordinator. Dr. Taerel’s extensive expertise, exemplified by her recent multilingual book on the Bucharest University Faculty of Pharmacy Museum, positions her as an exceptional leader for this initiative. Her vision will guide efforts to expand our network and develop innovative strategies in this vital field.

3. Working Group on Celebrating ISHP’s Centenary in 2026
As we approach the 100th anniversary of ISHP’s founding in 1926 in Innsbruck, Austria, this working group will lead the preparations for a grand celebration of our legacy and achievements. We are honored that Prof. Dr. Axel Helmstaedter, former ISHP President and a distinguished historian of pharmacy from Germany, has accepted the responsibility of coordinating this historic occasion. Supported by all past ISHP presidents and young pharmacy historians, Dr. Helmstaedter will ensure that this milestone event reflects both the rich heritage and the future aspirations of our society.

These working groups represent an exciting strategy to enhance ISHP’s influence and outreach. By addressing key topics such as women’s contributions, the preservation of pharmacy museums and historical collections, and our centenary celebrations, we are taking meaningful steps to enrich our field and inspire the next generation of pharmacy historians.

On behalf of ISHP, I extend my deepest gratitude to our esteemed colleagues for their time, dedication and leadership. Together, we are shaping a brighter and more inclusive future for pharmacy history.

Warm regards,

Prof. Dr. Halil Tekiner
President, International Society for the History of Pharmacy ... See MoreSee Less

Massive congratulations to Professor Stuart Anderson, past president of BSHP and editor of Pharmaceutical Historian, for being awarded the Schelenz Plakette 2024 for outstanding lifelong contribution to pharmacy history!

In presenting the award at last month's International Society for the History of Pharmacy Congress, Suzanne Landgraf said:

"With your extraordinary scientific achievements, you not only contributed to the visibility and perception of the history of pharmacy. The excellence of your scientific work promoted the positioning of the history of pharmacy in science as an integral part of pharmacy...We wish you all the best for your future work and we are looking forward to many interesting and exciting investigations and publications to come from your side!"

Image shows Dr Landgraf presenting Professor Anderson with the award. ... See MoreSee Less