New Book by Former SLU Pharmacology and Physiology Chair Thomas C. Westfall Details History of Department
02/11/2021
Thomas C. Westfall, Ph.D., former William Beaumont Professor and Chair of the Department of Pharmacology (1979-1990) as well as the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology (1990-2013) at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine, recently published a book, entitled: "The History of Pharmacology and Physiology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine."
The book provides a comprehensive, detailed and exciting story of pharmacology and physiology at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine from the early school in 1842, its demise by the "Know-Nothing" movement in 1855, its rebirth in 1903 with the acquisition of the Marion Sims Beaumont College of Medicine and on to the present time.
Westfall said the idea for the book originated out of the curiosity about the men and women who preceded him as chairs and faculty members in the departments of the University starting with its inception in 1837. It was also enkindled by the fact that similar histories had been written about two of the department at schools where Westfall trained, served, and taught: "The History of Pharmacology and Toxicology at West Virginia University School of Medicine" by Charles R. Craig and "Pharmacology at the University of Virginia" by Chalmers L. Gemmill and Mary Jeanne Jones.
The book describes the formation of the early school of medicine, the development of the departments of pharmacology and physiology, and the separation of the school from Saint Louis University due to the hostility of the anti-immigrant, anti-Catholic activities of the "Know-Nothing" movement of the time.
The book details biographical sketches of all the chairs, as well as limited bios of all 152 full-time faculty members highlighting their major research, and scholarly and service accomplishments. Research interests of the faculty are provided with representative extramural grants and funding obtained by faculty and departments. A listing of faculty who held research, secondary and adjunct track appointments in more recent departments is also included.
Additionally, mission statements and departmental objectives of most chairs are included with examples of administrative structure, governance and committees. Educational activities are described in some details and discussed with examples of course content, schedules and objectives beginning in the 1840s and on to the present. Innovative and unique educational offerings developed for medical, graduate and undergraduate students are also provided and shared.
Those interested in obtaining further information or a copy of the book can contact Westfall at Thomas.C.Westfall@slu.edu.