Dean Emerita Natalie Eddington’s Legacy Honored at Portrait Unveiling

Celebration recognizes 16 years of leadership and a lasting impact on the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.

By Pam Carder
April 23, 2026

The University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP) community gathered April 10 in Pharmacy Hall to honor Natalie D. Eddington, PhD, FAAPS, FCP, dean emerita, with the unveiling of her official portrait, recognizing a legacy of leadership that profoundly influenced the School’s culture, mission, and continued ascent.

Faculty, staff, students, alumni, and university leaders joined the celebration, reflecting on Eddington’s 16 years as dean and her enduring contributions to education, research, and the profession of pharmacy.

“At the School of Pharmacy, the portrait tradition for each retiring dean is one of our most meaningful and enduring rituals,” said Sarah L.J. Michel, PhD, dean of UMSOP and professor of pharmaceutical sciences.

“The portrait we unveil today is more than a likeness. It is a tribute,” continued Michel. It reflects a leader who helped shape the modern identity of this School, and whose influence will be felt for generations to come. When we place her portrait alongside those of the deans who came before her, we are not only honoring her individual contributions – we are also recognizing her as part of a continuum of leadership that defines who we are.”

During her 16-year tenure as dean, Eddington advanced initiatives that significantly strengthened the School. Under her leadership, UMSOP expanded its research enterprise, advanced innovative academic programs, and launched initiatives that strengthened connections across the profession and community.

University of Maryland, Baltimore President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, also recognized Eddington’s broad impact, noting her role in establishing transformative programs and centers that continue to define the School today. He also highlighted her scientific contributions, particularly in drug delivery and pharmacokinetics, which have advanced understanding of how therapies reach the brain and improved approaches to treating complex diseases.

“Dr. Eddington not only helped position the School of Pharmacy for continued excellence and national recognition, but she has also left an indelible mark on the field,” Jarrell said.

Eddington’s portrait was placed alongside portraits of the School’s eight previous deans in a new gallery on the third floor of Pharmacy Hall outside the Dean’s Suite.

“These portraits line our halls as a visual history of more than a century of leadership – each one capturing a moment in time, while representing years of vision, service, and impact,” said Michel. “Together, they tell the story of the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy: where we have been, how we have grown, and the leaders who have guided us forward. This afternoon, we proudly add a new chapter to that story.”

In addition to celebrating her past contributions, Michel announced the launch of an effort to establish the Dean Natalie Eddington Endowed Professorship, a $1 million initiative that will support future leaders in education, research, and practice.

“It was a privilege to serve the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy and to work alongside such dedicated faculty, staff, students, and alumni,” Eddington said. “I share this recognition with all of you.”

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