Dr. Stephen Durst has been named dean of Ferris State University’s College of Pharmacy,
effective Monday, Dec. 5.
For the past year, Durst has served as interim dean for Ferris’ College of Pharmacy. Since 1996, he has been a professor of Pharmacy Practice and continues to serve in that role. He has also previously served as assistant dean, associate dean and department head for the College of Pharmacy. Durst earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmacy from Ferris and his Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Michigan; additionally, he has been a Michigan licensed pharmacist since 1981.
“Dr. Durst was selected for the position after an exhaustive national search for dean candidates. During the search process, considerable input was sought and considered from faculty and staff in the College of Pharmacy, from other Ferris colleges and from the community,” said Fritz Erickson, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “I would like to personally thank all of the people who participated actively in this search process and shared their time and opinions as we considered the candidates. I hope you will join me in congratulating Steve on his new position.”
Durst has provided numerous significant contributions to Ferris and the College of Pharmacy. One of his major contributions includes his work to secure space for Ferris Doctor of Pharmacy students on Grand Rapids’ “Medical Mile.” The new $9.137 million space has a prime location adjacent to Michigan State University’s College of Medicine and across from Van Andel Research Institute and Spectrum Health, providing students with valuable educational, collaborative and active learning opportunities. Durst has also provided valuable support for the post-graduate opportunity in the Meijer, Pfizer and Ferris State University Community Pharmacy Practice Residency program.
Durst has maintained numerous professional roles outside of the university. He currently serves on the Board of Trustees with the Michigan Pharmacy Foundation. He has also served in a number of other professional appointments including the Advisory Council of the Michigan State Area Health Education Center, the Board of Directors of the Michigan Health Council, and as chairman of the Michigan Board of Pharmacy. Durst has received recognition from the Michigan Pharmacists Association, Arab American Pharmacists Association, and Michigan Society of Health-System Pharmacists.
Durst is currently co-chair of the College of Pharmacy ACPE Self-Study Committee and chair of the Accreditation Committee. His other committee involvement includes service on the HLC Steering Committee, Curricular Review Task Force – College of Pharmacy, Curriculum Committee – College of Pharmacy, Academic Program Review Committee, and Academic Program Review – Doctor of Pharmacy program.
Durst replaces former dean, Dr. Ian Mathison, who retired in late 2010.