The University of Maryland School of Pharmacy (UMSOP) celebrated the retirement of Richard Dalby, PhD, professor of pharmaceutical sciences (PSC), at a reception held June 24, marking the conclusion of a 34-year career defined by leadership in pharmacy education, innovation in aerosol science, and mentorship of students and researchers.

Dalby’s work has helped shape the field of pulmonary and nasal drug delivery, with extensive contributions to the formulation and evaluation of inhalation products including pressurized metered dose inhalers, dry powder inhalers, nebulizers, and nasal spray systems. His research has also extended into emerging public health concerns, including federally funded studies on electronic cigarettes and investigations into aerosol exposure risks in health care settings.

Hongbing Wang, PhD, distinguished university professor and interim chair of PSC, reflected on Dalby’s lasting influence.

“Today, we honor Dr. Dalby’s teaching, scholarship, mentorship, and service,” Wang said. “We recognize his long-lasting impact on so many of his students, colleagues, and many others.”

Speaking at the reception, Dalby reflected on what became an unexpected three-decade career at the School.

“I was kind of an accidental faculty member. I came here for a few years, and forgot to leave,” he joked.

Looking back on his career, Dalby credited colleagues, staff, and students for shaping his experience.

“I’ve learned so much more from every faculty and staff member than I ever shared in return,” he said. “I am also reminded that I probably learned a lot more from students than I ever taught them.”

In remarks honoring his career, Sarah L.J. Michel, PhD, dean of the School and professor of PSC, emphasized Dalby’s wide-ranging influence and the ingenuity that has led to breakthroughs and global impact in inhalation science.

“Richard is one of those people who, when faced with something new, doesn’t focus on why it can’t be done,” she said. “He starts thinking about how to do it in a clear, practical, and logical way.”

Michel continued, “His work in pulmonary drug delivery, inhalation technologies, and nasal sprays has been recognized around the world. He has helped advance the science behind these therapies and trained students and colleagues who will carry that work forward.”

Dalby’s leadership within the School has included serving as department vice chair, multiple terms as director of the PSC Graduate Program, and a pivotal role as associate dean for academic affairs. In that capacity, he oversaw the PharmD program, accreditation processes, assessment, and continuing education.

Beyond his scientific accomplishments, colleagues described Dalby as an inspiring educator, trusted mentor, and valued collaborator.

Amy Kruger Howard, PharmD, MS, assistant professor of practice, sciences, and health outcomes research, and a former student of Dalby’s, said his passion for science has influenced her own approach to teaching.

“Richard taught with a passion that made students want to learn more,” she said. “That passion shaped the way I approach teaching today, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to carry that forward and inspire the next generation of students as he inspired me.”

In addition to his research and teaching accomplishments, Dalby served as a consultant and advisor to pharmaceutical companies, earned recognition as a fellow of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, and became an internationally recognized expert in inhalation and nasal drug delivery. Throughout his career, he published extensively, collaborated with researchers across disciplines, and helped advance both the science and practice of drug delivery.

Michel also highlighted Dalby’s curiosity and lifelong commitment to learning, noting that the same spirit is evident not only in his scientific work but also in personal pursuits such as travel photography.

“He is curious, he wants to see things for himself, and he keeps learning,” she said. “Those same qualities show up in his science, his teaching, and his service to the School.”

While acknowledging that his career did not always unfold exactly as he expected, Dalby said those unexpected turns ultimately made it more rewarding.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here,” he said. “It didn’t always go the way I expected, and at times that was frustrating. But then I realized in retrospect – that’s what made it interesting.”

Although retiring from his full-time faculty role, Dalby plans to remain engaged with the School, including assisting with ongoing curricular initiatives and continuing to support colleagues and students.