What does Texas Pharmacy mean to you? For alumnus George Polansky and his wife Barbara, their support of the college has many forms. If you’re active in the alumni community, you have almost certainly seen George and Barbara at a Homecoming Tailgate, alumni reception, college happy hour or Advisory Council meeting. He was recently recognized as the 2023 Legend of Pharmacy Award Recipient for his dedication and lifelong impact on the profession. George’s love of the UT College of Pharmacy is comprehensive, tireless and, for our college community, life changing.
George’s passion for pharmacy came at an early age. "At around six months old, there is a picture of me on the prescription counter at Star Drug Store in Galveston, Texas," he says. "I was born within blocks of the UT Medical Branch and come from a long line of UT grads." His father, also a pharmacist, served his patients for decades with an exemplar of care.
George earned his pharmacy degree from The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy in 1971 and was a retail pharmacist for more than 50 years; first at his father’s pharmacy, then spending decades at Walmart and Albertsons. He held multiple positions at both companies, culminating as Director of Pharmacy Operations for Albertsons. After graduating from the college, and navigating his career, George always knew he wanted to support his alma mater and shape future pharmacists as they enter the profession. That dedication comes through his time and philanthropy.
As a member of the college’s Advisory Council, George and other distinguished alumni and friends share a commitment to advancing the quality of pharmacy education and research. "Being part of the Advisory Council is an honor. Pharmacy is a dynamic and ever-changing career," he says. "We, as pharmacists, need to encompass the future of pharmacy and health care."
In addition to their continued financial support of the college throughout the years, George and Barbara have decided to leave a legacy at Texas Pharmacy by including the college in their estate plans. When asked why he was gracious enough to support the college in this way, George said he just wanted to return the generosity Texas Pharmacy has given him in the past.
"During my first visit to UT Pharmacy, I met the acting Dean Albers. He was so gracious and understanding," says George. "I mentioned that I would be needing housing. In a minute, he had an answer!" That lasting impact has continued to this day. "Pharmacy has truly had a genuine and positive impact on my life. In fact, my best man and groomsmen were all UT pharmacists. The college will always hold a special place in my heart, and my support of and dedication to UT Pharmacy will continue long into the future."