Faculty Spotlight: Timothy J. Smith, RPh, PhD

Timothy J. Smith, RPh, PhD, professor of physiology and pharmacology, earned his bachelor of science in pharmacy from Purdue University in 1978 and his doctor of philosophy in pharmacology from University of Minnesota in 1983.

"When I was a pharmacy student at Purdue University, we had a clinical instructor who was a Pacific pharmacy graduate," said Dr. Smith. "Although I had never heard of Pacific prior to that time, I was so impressed with his professionalism. Pacific became an important benchmark for pharmacy education in my mind from that point forward." A few decades later, he met Alice Jean Matuszak, PhD, professor emerita of pharmaceutics and medicinal chemistry, at an American Pharmacists Association meeting where she strongly encouraged him to apply for an open faculty position.  Dr. Smith joined the Pacific faculty in 1993.

What he loves about teaching at Pacific is the enthusiasm of the students. Throughout his time at the School, he has focused on helping students gain unique, marketable skills. He encourages students to be intentional about thinking of ways they can give back to the profession once they are out in the field. "When you have the opportunity, always find a unique way to contribute to the profession," Dr. Smith said.

When he retires this summer, he will miss the interactions he has with students and colleagues. Reflecting on the past 26 years, he is grateful to the students, staff and faculty who have made his time at Pacific memorable and fulfilling. "Thank you for your help in making these past 26 years the most rewarding of my life," Dr. Smith said.

Dr. Smith is looking forward to being able to dedicate more time to music. A talented musician, he is a singer and songwriter. Alumni may remember being serenaded by Dr. Smith at the Rho Chi talent show or in class. "Each year for the past 22 years, I played guitar and sang for the students at the end of a semester," he said.

Travel features prominently in his plans for the future. He has traveled extensively throughout Japan. He plans to return to Japan and explore other parts of Asia, as well as Europe. "I plan to spend more time toward my volunteer work locally and globally, including volunteer work for Pacific," Dr. Smith said.

about the author

Anne Marie H. Bergthold  

Anne Marie H. Bergthold is the Marketing Coordinator for Pacific's Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy.