What is VAAC?

Although there are records in its archives going back to 1853, the Veteran Apothecaries Association of Cincinnati (VAAC) was officially founded in 1927. The mission of VAAC, as indicated in its Bylaws, is to “bind in a spirit of fraternity, harmony, learning and good will, those working for the cause of Pharmacy in the Greater Cincinnati Area, and to do good works.” In 2017, VAAC members will celebrate its ninetieth birthday.

 

Qualifications for membership are:

• must be a Pharmacist or friend of Pharmacy for at least 25 years,

• must be able to enjoy fellowship with Pharmacy colleagues,

• must have a desire to learn more about the profession and the world around us.

 

From 1927 until the 1950s, membership was limited to 25. Over the years, membership was limited to 35, to 40, to 50 and to 75. In January 2012, when the members revised the Association’s Bylaws, the limitation to size was removed. On October 15, 2013, at VAAC’s 1039th meeting, there were 100 members. By January, 2017 there were 162 members.

 

The organization holds monthly meetings, which include a luncheon, guest speaker, memorial to departed members, singing happy birthday and presenting a carnation to members having their birthday that month, and conducting business. VAAC also has an annual picnic in September  and holiday party during the Christmas season.

 

“Veterans helping Youth” For the good works portion of its mission, members have chosen to support students in the Winkle College of Pharmacy, J. Richard Wuest Family Pharmacy Practice Skills Center. While not a philanthropic organization, each year the excess income above operating expenses is donated to the college for use in assisting students to be well prepared to enter the practice of Pharmacy. It is anticipated that, 25 years after they graduate and become licensed, former students will join VAAC and continue the tradition.