Remembering Dean Luzzi

Known as ‘the Father of Microencapsulation in Pharmacy,’ Dean Luzzi founded the International Encapsulation Society and its journal. During his 20-year tenure as dean, he was instrumental in building the college’s national and international reputation and in developing global partnerships with colleges of pharmacy and the pharmaceutical industry. Dean Luzzi was also instrumental in raising funds to support the growth of the college, including new programs, expanded campus facilities and scholarships. His other priorities—research and faculty support—led to the creation of three endowed academic chairs for the College of Pharmacy, the impact of which will resonate for generations.

On Friday, October 16 at 3:00 p.m., an overflowing crowd gathered for a very special event in the history of the College of Pharmacy – the dedication of the Dr. Louis A. Luzzi Dean’s Suite. The dedication program included speeches by Dean Paul Larrat, URI’s 11th President David M. Dooley, and alumnus Marc Bernarducci ’91, Pharm.D. ’95. A tribute video featuring Norman Campbell ’57, Leonard Worthen Hon.’84, Joan Lausier ’67 Ph.D. ’71, Lois Vars Mason ’62, and Henry Pedro ’76 was shown, which brought laughter as well as tears. Lou’s wife Joyce Luzzi shared final thoughts, and then the crowd moved to the entrance of the Suite to unveil its new name!
As Lou would have liked, the event ended with a fun, lively reception flowing into the second floor mezzanine overlooking the Heber Youngken Medicinal Garden on a perfect fall day. Among the alumni, student and friends in attendance were President Emeritus Robert L. Carothers, Provost Donald DeHayes, and several vice presidents and deans. All agree Lou would have been very pleased.
Many are asking how to honor Lou with a gift to the College. We believe Lou would support giving to one of the Dean’s priorities. Those priorities and opportunities for giving are outlined on the giving page on the College website.