Dr. Strada began his career at the USA College of Medicine in 1983 when he was recruited as chair and professor of the department of pharmacology. He was named senior associate dean for the USA College of Medicine in 1994. During his career at USA, he also served as acting director of the graduate program in basic medical sciences, assistant dean for admissions and acting chair of psychiatry. An avid Jags supporter, he also served as chair of the Athletic Council and as Faculty Athletic Representative from 1990-1997.
Prior to joining USA, Dr. Strada spent 11 years on the faculty at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston during which he served one year as acting chair of pharmacology. He joined the school as assistant professor and was promoted to full professor of pharmacology in 1981.
Throughout his lengthy career at USA, Dr. Strada has made significant contributions to medical education and research in the state of Alabama, as well as the nation.
Dr. Strada was instrumental in the creation of the Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy at USA, the Office of Technology Development, the Office of Research Compliance and Assurance and the USA Technology and Research Park.
A scientist by training, Dr. Strada has published more than 200 articles and abstracts, earning national recognition for his research on cellular signaling mechanisms. He has been an active member in the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics and the Council of Academic Societies of the Association of American Medical Colleges. In addition, he has served as president of the Association for Medical School Pharmacology Chairs, as well as the Southeastern Pharmacology Society. He currently serves as president of the South Alabama Medical Science Foundation.
Dr. Strada has received numerous awards including USA's Medical Alumni Association Distinguished Service Award, the Friend of Pharmacy Award from Auburn University's Harrison School of Pharmacy, the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award from the University of Missouri at Kansas City, and the GoDaddy Bowl Champion of Life Award.
Earlier this year, the USA Board of Trustees honored Dr. Strada and his late wife Judy by naming the new clinical care building that will open in November, the Strada Patient Care Center. This building will house much of the USA Physicians Group clinical practice.
The event is open to faculty, staff and students at USA.
