Professor Anna Schwendeman named Larry and Ann Hsu Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences
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Anna S. Schwendeman, PhD, has been named Larry and Ann Hsu Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, as approved by the Regents of the University of Michigan.
The Larry and Ann Hsu professorship was established in 2016 thanks to a generous gift from Dr. Chung-Chiang (Larry) Hsu and his wife Fung-Hwa (Ann) Hsu. A benevolent philanthropist, Dr. Hsu received his PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the College of Pharmacy in 1981 and leads a successful career in the drug development and drug delivery market. Both Dr. Larry and Dr. Ann are longtime donors and champions of students at the University of Michigan and have made great contributions to the next generation of pharmacy leaders in the College of Pharmacy.
This professorship recognizes leading faculty in the College of Pharmacy and is a well-suited appointment for Dr. Schwendeman, an astute scientist with a background in drug delivery and a passion for mentoring the pharmaceutical leaders of tomorrow.
“Not only does Dr. Schwendeman bring a wealth of experience in the pharmaceutical industry and regulatory research, but more importantly, she is a compassionate and knowledgeable role model and mentor for students across our programs,” remarked Dean Vicki Ellingrod. “We are extremely proud to appoint Dr. Schwendeman with this prestigious professorship, and we are grateful for Dr. Larry Hsu and Ann Hsu for their generous contribution to the future of pharmacy excellence.”
Dr. Schwendeman joined the College of Pharmacy in 2012 and was recently appointed Chair of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Prior to joining U-M, Dr. Schwendeman worked in the pharmaceutical industry for twelve years utilizing her scientific and management skills at Esperion Therapeutics (2000–2004), Pfizer Global Research and Development (2004–2005), and Cerenis Therapeutics (2006–2011).
At the College, Dr. Schwendeman established a successful research program that explores the pharmaceutical properties of synthetic high-density lipoproteins (HDL) products and translates them for clinical use. She also focuses on increasing access to safe, effective and affordable complex generics as a co-lead of the FDA-funded Center for Research on Complex Generics. The Center focuses on reducing scientific barriers for the development of generics for medications that have complex active ingredients, formulations, delivery, or drug-device combination products.
She is also a dedicated mentor to dozens of students past and present and recently received the prestigious Mentor of the Year award from the American Foundation for Pharmaceutical Education (AFPE).
“It is an honor to be appointed to this professorship. My passion for accessible medication and science is not unlike the work of Dr. Hsu, and I am proud to continue my work in increasing access to safe, effective and affordable medications,” said Dr. Schwendeman. “Additionally, I look forward to continuing to mentor students providing guidance and passing on my knowledge.” ”
Dr. Schwendeman’s term as Larry and Ann Hsu Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences is effective September 1, 2024 through August 31, 2027.
