SPJ founder, publisher Gary Cohen passes away

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — Gary M. Cohen, founder and publisher of Specialty Pharma Journal,  has passed away, the publication announced Friday. Cohen founded the publication in 2010 and served as publisher until his unexpected death on Sept. 18. 

“It is with great sadness that we mourn the passing of Gary M. Cohen,” SPJ editor Nicole Watkins, Editor, Specialty Pharma Journal. “SPJ, and the pharmacy community as a whole, has lost an iconic leader and visionary. Cohen was a master of his craft. His passion and dedication to the Specialty Pharmacy industry was second to none, and his contributions will live on.”

Cohen had more than 30 years’ experience working in pharmacy- and specialty pharmacy-related organizations. He founded and served as CEO of pharmaceutical education and marketing company Pharmacy Power-Pak and was president of CEO of Synergy Healthcare Communications. Cohen also founded and served as CEO of the National Association of Specialty Pharmacy, and was the founder and executive director of the Specialty Pharmacy Certification Board (SPCB).

“We are saddened by the sudden passing of Gary Cohen,” SPCB president Ray Tancredi said. “Gary was a tireless proponent of specialty pharmacy education and certification. The Specialty Pharmacy Certification Board offers our condolences to Gary's family."

“Gary will be dearly missed. His energy and confidence in those around him was uplifting and encouraging. He had an ability to make every interaction meaningful,” Watkins said. “While Gary was a great leader and teacher, he was an even better friend. Our heart and prayers go out to his family and friends.”