Distinguished Alumni Award Winner Profile

Thomas “T.J.” Johnsrud is a visionary in health care, business, and service to others. For the past 50 years, he has cultivated a pharmacy in Conrad, Iowa, into a multifaceted organization serving thousands of patients daily in the upper Midwest and Texas. In addition, Johnsrud has maintained involvement in the pharmacy industry at the local, state, and national levels and served as a lifelong advisor to the UI College of Pharmacy.

As president of NuCara Management Group, Johnsrud oversees more than 39 community pharmacies specializing in traditional, compounding, and infusion therapy.  NuCara also includes 10 medical equipment locations and two LTC pharmacies serving multiple nursing home facilities.

“He has achieved success based on an inclusive, motivational approach that values innovation and elevating others,” says NuCara CEO Brian Wegmann.

Johnsrud authorized NuCara pharmacies to participate in pilot programs that advance pharmacy practice, and he innovated the “tech check tech” program that freed up pharmacists to provide more direct patient care. He continues to enhance health care through the Iowa Pharmacy Association and other industry organizations.

“It brings him joy to bring everyone to the top with him,” says Pamela Wiltfang (08BA, 12PHR, 12MPH), director of clinical services and innovative practice at NuCara. “T.J. always puts family, friends, colleagues, employees, and patients, first.”

A lauded alumnus and constant champion of the UI College of Pharmacy, Johnsrud has served as a guest lecturer, donor, and advisor. He shared ideas and support for the development of the new pharmacy building and currently serves as chair of the Executive Leadership Board. The college honored him with distinguished alumni and lifetime achievement awards.

Johnsrud is a pillar in his profession and an alumnus who advances the careers of Hawkeye pharmacists while improving health care nationwide.