In the Spotlight is an initiative to celebrate the incredibly talented people and teams within the college and to facilitate awareness and understanding of the unique individuals who make up the pharmacy family. This month, we learn about Philip (Phil) Greazel, director of development.

Tell us about your role.

As the director of development, I coordinate the fundraising program for the College of Pharmacy. I work with people to identify their philanthropic goals and match them with opportunities to invest in the people and programs that make the college a world-class institution.

Tell us about your personal photo.

The photo includes my wife, Elizabeth, and represents our time living in San Francisco and one of our many trips to wine country. It’s just a short drive from the city but feels like a world away – a great place to relax and to entertain visiting family and friends.

What field of work did you begin in? 

I have a Bachelor's of Science in Health Promotion, and was an American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) certified Personal Trainer. I started working some technical help desk jobs to supplement my income, which in a roundabout way brought me to the University of Iowa Foundation (the first time). From there I learned more about professional opportunities in fundraising.

What made you chose this field of work?

I get to work with highly motivated and intelligent people every day who are working hard to solve major health problems, which lines up well with my interests in health and wellness. My efforts as a development professional can positively impact a variety of programs and a large number of people more widely than I likely could on my own.

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

I need to be physically active and to eat dark chocolate.

What is your favorite thing to do in the summer?

I really like going back to California and hiking in Yosemite National Park. I visited probably 15 times over the three years we lived in California and I try to get back annually now. I was hiking there and happened to witness a significant rock fall in September 2017, which was intense. I also like to travel to new places near and far with Elizabeth and to take photos of landscapes (photo of Yosemite National Park is below). We’ve been fortunate to visit a number of very interesting places.

This "In the Spotlight" has been brought to you by the UI College of Pharmacy Staff Council.