Mary Munson Runge: A Trailblazer in Pharmacy

Two photos of Mary Munson. First is a headshot. Second Mary is typing at a pharmacy counter.

Photos courtesy of blackamericaweb.com and aphafoundation.org

As we celebrate Black History Month, it’s important to pause and remember the achievements by Black Americans and their critical, central role in United States history. Here, we spotlight Mary Munson Runge—a pharmacist and advocate.

Mary Munson Runge, born in 1928 in Donaldsonville, Louisiana, played a critical role in breaking down barriers for Black Americans in the field of pharmacy. Her father, John Harvey Lowery, was the town's first pharmacist and was known for helping the town’s poor residents get their needed treatment. He was a significant influence on her career choice. After graduating from Xavier University of Louisiana College of Pharmacy in 1948, Runge moved to California, where she began her career in hospital pharmacy, serving for 21 years. She was one of the few female pharmacists at the time.1,2

Runge's commitment to helping those in need was evident in her work. She transitioned to community pharmacy, working at Sylvester Flower's Apothecary in Oakland, California. This practice served needy patient areas, and Runge found great fulfillment in helping poor African American people who couldn’t afford their medicine.1

In 1979, Runge made history by becoming the first woman and the first African American to be elected president of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), ending a 126-year run of white, male presidents.2,3 This achievement was a significant milestone in the advancement of diversity and inclusion in the pharmacy profession.

During her tenure as APhA president, Runge worked tirelessly to increase diversity within the profession. She was instrumental in creating the APhA Task Force on Women in Pharmacy and APhA's Office of Women's Affairs. Her commitment to increasing diversity in membership ranks was fueled by her father’s devotion to the poor and disenfranchised.1,2

After her two terms as president ended in 1981, Runge continued to practice pharmacy while also serving on various federal committees over the next two decades. She received honorary doctorates from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy (Doctor of Science) and Ohio Northern University (Doctor of Pharmacy) in recognition of her work for the profession. She was named Pharmacist of the Year in 1978 by the California Pharmacists Association and was inducted into the California Pharmacists Association Hall of Fame in 1997.1

Runge's legacy extends beyond her professional achievements. She balanced her career with raising a family, becoming a grandmother, and serving as a mentor to other pharmacists.3 Her life and work serve as an inspiration to many, reminding us that progress is always being fought for and won, even in more modern times.3

In honor of Runge's contributions to the field of pharmacy, the APhA established a scholarship in her name. The Mary Munson Runge Scholarship is awarded annually to APhA student members, serving as a fitting tribute to her legacy and helping to pave the way for future leaders in the pharmacy profession.2

In conclusion, Mary Munson Runge's pioneering work and leadership have left an indelible mark on the pharmacy profession. Her dedication to advocating for the inclusion of women and minorities in pharmacy and her outstanding achievements as a pharmacist have paved the way for countless Black Americans in the field. Her enduring impact continues to inspire and influence the pharmacy profession, and her contributions deserve recognition and celebration.1,2,3

DISCLAIMER: THIS IS NOT MEDICAL OR LEGAL ADVICE. All information, content, and material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider or as legal advice. Please consult a physician or other health care professional for your specific health care and/or medical needs or concerns and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here or on our website.

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References

  1. African American Registry. (n.d.). Mary Munson Runge, a pharmacy pioneer. https://aaregistry.org/story/mary-munson/

  2. Black America Web. (2016, November 18). Little Known Black History Fact: Mary Munson Runge. https://blackamericaweb.com/2016/11/18/little-known-black-history-fact-mary-munson-runge/

  3. West Virginia University School of Medicine. (2020, February 28). Celebrating Black History Month: Three pharmacy trailblazers who made a difference. https://medicine.wvu.edu/News/Story?headline=celebrating-black-history-month-three-pharmacy-trailblazers-who-madedifference

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