Alumni Insights: Coronavirus Vaccines: Science, Sociology & Humanity

Globally recognized vaccine expert John D. Grabenstein got his professional start with Duquesne School of Pharmacy's Class of 1980. During our next #DuqAlumniInsights, moderated by Dr. J. Douglas Bricker from the School of Pharmacy, he will discuss just enough science to bring us up to date with the various kinds of coronavirus vaccines in clinical trials. Then he will delve into the issues that make people desire or fear vaccines so strongly, including religious issues. John Grabenstein, PhD, is a global vaccinologist, pharmacist, and public-health leader, specializing in adult vaccines, implementation, and vaccine history. He has written more than 300 articles and 11 books. Today, he operates Vaccine Dynamics, a multifaceted consulting service. He is also associate director for scientific communications with the Immunization Action Coalition. He is the 2020 Remington Honor Medalist, American pharmacy’s highest honor for distinguished service. He has also received a master’s degree in education from Boston University and a doctorate in epidemiology at the University of North Carolina. He has experience in over 50 countries and 50 ACIP meetings, and has served on committees advising HHS, DoD, and the Dep. of Commerce. As Global Exec. Dir. of Medical Affairs for Merck Vaccines, he led scientific-exchange activities for a global enterprise annually distributing > 180 million doses of 13 vaccines, to help reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases. His advocacy helped strengthen adult immunization programs on six continents. As a U.S. Army Colonel, he directed DoD vaccination programs for 9 million troops, retirees, and family members across four continents and dozens of ships at sea. He organized “Immunization University” to train clinicians across health disciplines across continents. If you would like to share your expertise with your fellow alumni, fill out an application at www.myduquesne.duq.edu/webinarpresenter to be considered.