Associate Dean Joseph Saseen Announces Retirement After Three Decades of Leadership and Service at CU Anschutz Pharmacy

After more than 30 years of distinguished service to the University of Colorado Anschutz Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Joseph Saseen, PharmD, will retire in June 2026, concluding an extraordinary academic and clinical career that has left a lasting impact on the School, the pharmacy profession, and countless students, trainees, and patients.

Dr. Saseen joined the School in 1995 as a post-graduate fellow and has served in numerous leadership and faculty roles throughout his tenure, most recently as Professor and Associate Dean for Clinical Affairs. Over the course of his career, he has become nationally recognized for his expertise in pharmacy education, cardiovascular pharmacotherapy, preventive cardiology, and lipid management.

His leadership has helped shape clinical pharmacy practice both locally and nationally through scholarship, innovation in patient care, mentorship, and service to leading professional organizations. Widely respected as an educator, clinician, researcher, and collaborator, Saseen has influenced generations of pharmacists, physicians, residents, fellows, and faculty colleagues.

“It has been an extraordinary privilege to spend my entire academic career at CU,” Saseen shared in announcing his retirement. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such outstanding colleagues and to contribute to our shared missions in education, clinical care, and scholarship.”

“Joe’s impact on this School and on the profession of pharmacy cannot be overstated,” said Brian Tsuji, PhD, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “His leadership, mentorship, scholarship, and commitment to excellence have strengthened our institution in countless ways. We are profoundly grateful for his decades of service and know his influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.” Dean Tsuji noted Joe’s relentless persistence and unique insight to always improve the care of patients. “My first days in Colorado were over the December break where Joe was always there. Every day, I get to see his incredibly work ethic and his love for CU will forever be imprinted on our school.”

Friends, family, and colleagues from across the country honor Dr. Saseen at his retirement celebration.

Dean Brian Tsuji presents Dr. Saseen with an award recognizing his 30+ years of service to the School.

Former dean Dr. Ralph Altiere recounts Dr. Saseen’s many accomplishments.

Associate Vice Chancellor of Strategic Initiatives Dr. Laura Borgelt presents Dr. Saseen with a retirement sash.

Dr. Sunny Linnebur holds a map depicting all the places that Dr. Saseen’s students have gone over the years.

Throughout his career, Saseen earned national recognition for excellence in teaching, practice advancement, and professional leadership. Among his many honors and distinctions: