1972 CU Pharmacy alumnus Robert Fowler wears many different hats as a pharmacist, city coroner and minister, establishing a reputation for multitasking in order to meet community needs. For anyone who has ever thought about how far you can go with a pharmacy degree, Robert demonstrates the possibilities when you use your background knowledge to think outside of the box and apply your degree to areas that most would never consider as an option with a pharmacy degree.
Robert remains actively involved in his community and seems to always be on the go. He’s helping organize his 55th high school class reunion and the 50th reunion of his classmates from CU Pharmacy.
Next year, two groups where he volunteers will also have reunions. The La Junta Fire Department, where he’s been a volunteer firefighter for about 54 years, will have its 140-year celebration 2023. Another organization he volunteers for as board chair is the Koshare Museum in La Junta, which is owned by the local Boy Scout troop and maintains a $50 million art collection. The museum will mark its 90th anniversary in 2023.
In addition, Robert has two appointed positions benefiting from his knowledge as a pharmacy professional. He was appointed as a professional member of the Inspiration Field Human Rights Commission for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities where he offers clinical recommendations on psychiatric medications. He was also appointed to serve on the Adult Leadership Group for the Otero County Health Department, created as an initiative 10 years ago to address the underage use of alcohol, tobacco, and vaping.
It has been a life-long journey of learning and giving back for Robert dating as far back as childhood. He decided in 3rd grade he wanted to be a pharmacist after attending a health fair at the Denver Colosseum. The local pharmacy in his area sponsored the trip, renting a bus to transport local children to the fair. The trip opened doors and paved the way for him to begin his pharmacy career, starting as a delivery boy at 13 for the local pharmacy. From there, the journey expanded, and he’s been on the go ever since. He even runs the annual Bolder Boulder 10K marathon as further proof of his “on the go” lifestyle.
“Life is too good to sit around. You just don't slow down and keep moving right along. Every day is as good as it gets,” Robert said.