College of Pharmacy celebrates the living legacy of Robert J. Kuhn on World Pharmacist Day

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 25, 2024) — For nearly four decades, Robert J. Kuhn, Pharm.D., the Kentucky Hospital Association Endowed Professor, has proudly served the University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. As we celebrate World Pharmacist Day, his storied career offers a profound illustration of the pivotal role pharmacists play in shaping health care, particularly in specialized fields like pediatric pharmacotherapy and cystic fibrosis care. Kuhn’s work stands as a testament to the lasting impact pharmacists can have — not only on patients, but on the future of the profession itself.

Kuhn’s journey into pharmacy began in a small-town drugstore, where a summer job sparked a passion for health care that would drive him throughout his life. From these modest beginnings, he rose to become a pioneer in pediatric pharmacy, transforming the treatment landscape for children with cystic fibrosis. His innovations have not only extended patients’ lives but have also set new standards in clinical practice.

One of the defining moments in his career came when Kuhn volunteered at a camp for children with cystic fibrosis. This experience ignited his lifelong dedication to improving their care.

“Bob’s contributions have advanced the frontiers of pediatric pharmacy practice, especially for children with cystic fibrosis,” said Milap Nahata, Pharm.D., Kuhn’s longtime colleague and mentor. Kuhn’s commitment to advocating for pharmacists’ roles in multidisciplinary teams has redefined cystic fibrosis care centers across the U.S.

Kuhn’s impact has been acknowledged through numerous prestigious awards, underscoring his national and international influence. Among these honors are the Richard Helms Award for Excellence in Pediatric Pharmacy Practice, the ACCP Pediatric PRN Outstanding Achievement Award and the ASHP Outstanding Preceptor of the Year Award. Locally, he has been named Pharmacist of the Year by the Kentucky Society of Health-System Pharmacists, received the Paul Parker Award and earned the title of Honorary UK Pharmacy Resident. These accolades are a reflection of the respect he commands within the pharmacy community.

Kuhn’s influence extends far beyond his clinical achievements. His dedication to mentoring future leaders in pediatric pharmacy has shaped more than 40 pharmacy residents, many of whom now lead in the field. Elizabeth Autry, Pharm.D., a former resident, trained under Kuhn. 

“Through his vision, pediatric pharmacy services have expanded dramatically,” she said. “His mentorship has opened doors for me academically, clinically and professionally. I’m honored to be one of his graduates.”

His colleagues, including Jamshed Kanga, M.D., chief of pediatric pulmonology at Kentucky Children’s Hospital, also highlight his profound contributions.

“His work led to the approval of ciprofloxacin for use in children with cystic fibrosis, a milestone that transformed treatment outcomes,” Kanga said. Kuhn’s integration of pharmacists into cystic fibrosis care teams set a benchmark for collaborative health care.

Pharmacy Dean Kip Guy expressed his deep gratitude for Kuhn's contributions. 

“Dr. Robert Kuhn’s career exemplifies the highest standards of excellence in pharmacy,” he said. “His impact on pediatric pharmacotherapy, particularly in cystic fibrosis care, has changed the lives of countless patients and their families. He has transformed clinical care and inspired a generation of pharmacists through his mentorship, education and leadership. We are incredibly fortunate to have had him as a part of our faculty, and his dedication and compassion have made a lasting impression on us all. His legacy at the University of Kentucky and the broader pharmacy community will be felt for many years."

Nahata echoes the sentiments of many when he reflects on the long-lasting contributions Kuhn has made to pharmacy and beyond. 

“I admire Bob’s values and feel proud of his accomplishments and many honors,” he said. “His impactful work involving patients with cystic fibrosis was the driver to establish the essential role of a pharmacist on every cystic fibrosis team across the U.S.”

As a revered educator and leader, Kuhn took pride in shaping a program that not only produced skilled pharmacists, but also compassionate caregivers. His former mentees often recall his commitment to patient care. Autry highlights one of Kuhn’s guiding principles — nothing comes before the care of a sick child — as an ethos that became the cornerstone of his teaching and clinical practice. Its influence is evident in the thriving network of pediatric pharmacists he helped cultivate.

Although Kuhn is stepping into retirement, he remains committed to advancing the field. As a founding and current board member, he remains actively involved with Mission Health Lexington, also known as Faith Pharmacy. In retirement, he plans to mentor the next generation of pediatric pharmacists while spending more time with his spouse, Jan, and their four grandchildren.

Reflecting on his career, Kuhn shared his hope to be remembered for his dedication to patient care and his role in expanding the boundaries of pharmacy practice: “Just because pharmacists aren’t involved in something doesn’t mean they can’t be.”