My mentors

Abstract

This paper traces the academic genealogy of Professor Takeru Higuchi, who is considered "The Father of Physical Pharmacy" because of his contributions to the science of drug formulation and delivery and his impact in mentoring a whole generation of post-World War II pharmaceutical scientists. As one who was mentored by Professor Higuchi (Tak), I was challenged to ask the question, "If Tak was my mentor, who was his mentor, and who were those who formed his academic lineage?" This question led me to attempt to follow Professor Higuchi's academic genealogy. I was quite surprised at what I found and I thought it would be of interest to many readers who will correctly claim direct or indirect connection to Professor Higuchi. A greater purpose of my paper is to encourage all readers to think about their mentors and to take the time for a note of gratitude (if possible) to these people who have so deeply affected their life.