November 4, 2024
Awardee Dr. Tim Cunniff poses with Dean Vicki Ellingrod (L) and John Paul (R).

Cunniff accepts Ara G. Paul Philanthropic Distinction Award from U-M College of Pharmacy

Author: Markie Heideman, Content Marketing Manager

Media Contact: Lindsay Groth, Director of Marketing and Communications, [email protected]

 

 

The College of Pharmacy is honored to announce that Tim Cunniff, PharmD ‘89, is the recipient of the inaugural U-M College of Pharmacy’s Ara G. Paul Philanthropic Distinction Award.

 

The late Dean Emeritus Ara G. Paul was one of the College of Pharmacy’s greatest student supporters. To honor and pay tribute to him, his family, and his indelible legacy, the College has established the Ara G. Paul Philanthropic Distinction Award. This award recognizes those who embody the philanthropic spirit of Dean Emeritus Paul, who served as Dean from 1975-1995. 

 

Honorees of this award are celebrated for their outstanding leadership, volunteerism, philanthropy and contributions to advancing the mission of the College of Pharmacy. Dean Paul was a titan of Michigan pharmacy and propelled it to national prominence, driven by his desire to provide students with a transformational education.  

 

“The entire Paul family is extremely appreciative of the College of Pharmacy’s commitment to honor my father’s legacy with the naming of this prestigious award,” said John Paul, son of Ara G. Paul. “Throughout his career, and into retirement, he demonstrated an unwavering devotion for furthering the college’s mission through fundraising, volunteering and partnerships. The Ara G Paul Philanthropic Distinction Award is a perfect way to recognize others who demonstrate a similar passion through their own service and giving.”

 

For Dr. Cunniff, being the first recipient of this distinguished award is personal because of his connection to Dean Paul. 

 

“This is a significant honor and extremely special because it commemorates Dean Paul’s legacy,” said Cunniff. “He was a legend who was always accessible and wanted to make the College a better place for students. During my final year in pharmacy school, he shadowed me on a hospital rotation, and he really wanted to get to know me and my experience. I’ve never forgotten that day.” 

 

Today, Dr. Cunniff serves as Executive Vice President of Research and Development (R&D) at Paragon Biosciences in Chicago, a leadership position he has held for more than 20 years. There, he assists up-and-coming biotech companies created and funded by Paragon with clinical and regulatory matters pertinent to developing new drugs and cell and gene therapies and provides oversight of those companies’ R&D groups.

 

Prior to Paragon, Dr. Cunniff worked in Regulatory Affairs for Parke-Davis in Ann Arbor and Abbott Laboratories in Chicago. He credits his education at the U-M College of Pharmacy for laying the foundation for a successful career. 

 

“I still use what I learned in my courses every day – from statistics and clinical pharmacology to pharmacokinetics and medicinal chemistry. Dean Paul significantly expanded the research element of the curriculum during his tenure and it was the perfect degree for my career,” Cunniff remarked. 

 

Dr. Cunniff has given back to the College of Pharmacy in many impactful ways including serving on the Dean’s Advisory Committee, sitting on the Dean’s Search Committee, establishing the Timothy M. Cunniff Scholarship Fund to help the next generation of pharmacists fund their education and supporting the building of the College’s new home on campus. Additionally, he serves as a preceptor for PharmD APPE rotations. 

 

“Working in the pharmaceutical industry is challenging, but also extremely rewarding, so I love to show students all of the options they have with a PharmD degree,” explained Cunniff. “The more we can get Michigan graduates into biotech and pharma companies, the better outcomes we’ll deliver for patients.”

 

Dr. Cunniff was presented with the Ara G. Paul Philanthropic Distinction Award by John Paul before a group of alumni and donors at the College’s Leaders and Legacy event on November 1.

 

“Dr. Cunniff shares his time, treasure and talent with the College - a true trifecta,” remarked Terra Khanna, Executive Director of Advancement for the College of Pharmacy. “We are extremely proud to have presented this award to Dr. Cunniff who has made such a meaningful impact on the College community. His dedication to the field of pharmacy and his philanthropic commitment to future pharmacists truly reflect our values as a College, and it’s a true honor to recognize him for those contributions.” 

 

Congratulations to Dr. Cunniff, and thank you for the impact you are making on healthcare and the future of pharmacy!