Richard Schaefer, an alumnus and current student in Concordia’s School of Pharmacy, has been awarded a scholarship for his outstanding service to underserved populations.


The CVS/AACP Community Pharmacy Health Equity Award is a $20,000 scholarship awarded to student pharmacists. It recognizes outstanding academic achievement and evidence of dedication to serving underserved populations. This scholarship is a nationwide award, with over 200 applications only 21 student pharmacists are chosen to receive it. Schaefer’s award was the only one granted in the State of Wisconsin.

Richard graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences in May 2024 and is now pursuing a Doctorate of Pharmacy. Schaefer explained that CUWSOP helped him prepare for this award by instilling proper values and a strong work ethic in him. Both of these qualities are required to deliver patients exceptional care, and the scholarship committee noticed this. Throughout his undergraduate experience and into his graduate experience he has seen his professors incorporate faith into classes.

“I chose Concordia due to the closeness of the faculty and students,” he said. “In an intense program like pharmacy, it is nice to know that my professors care about me as a person, and I am viewed as more than just a number. It has reminded me to thank the Lord for all of the blessings he has bestowed upon me, and to be a good steward with these blessings.”

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