When visitors step into the office of John C. Livesey, PhD, associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences, they are greeted with a warm smile and the offer of a cup of coffee. Books and papers fill the shelves, a testament to his 40 years in academia, 31 of them spent at Pacific. Magnets from around the world hint at global adventures, while close-up photos of nature reflect his deep appreciation for detail. Dr. Livesey has always been drawn to the micro. A fascination for how living organisms work and a desire to understand how chemicals can alter the processes of life led him to the field of physiology and pharmacology.

“One of my proudest accomplishments is the large number of people who I’ve help understand physiology and pharmacology,” said Dr. Livesey. “I still get anxious about going into the classroom, but it is very rewarding when you see the light bulb go on; there’s just something magical about that.”

He prefers one-on-one interactions and the process of discovery that takes place in a research lab.

“In the laboratory setting we’re both learning together,” he said. “Not only are we learning about the outcome of the experiment, but we’re also learning about how to conduct the experiment. Students may think I have a better ability to predict the outcome, but I don’t. I don’t know what will happen. Variables arise that influence the process that are uncontrolled, and they can either make or break an experiment.”

Throughout his career he has had one overarching goal: to spark curiosity. Over the decades he has served as the faculty advisor to multiple student groups, including mentoring future pharmacists through Pacific’s Pre-Pharmacy Society. Students speak highly of how he encouraged them to pursue their goals.

“The quality of mentorship I have received from Dr. Livesey is second-to-none. His dedication to science and his students is incredible and I would not be where I am without his support. I believe he leaves behind an incredible legacy at the university,” said Zubair Amin ’18, PharmD.

Dr. Livesey’s contributions behind-the-scenes have profoundly impacted the school and the university. A tireless champion of faculty governance, he has strengthened Pacific’s vibrant academic community through his leadership and service. He served on numerous committees and was chair of the Academic Council for the 2018-2019 academic year. He also played a role in four significant doctor of pharmacy program curriculum transformations, as well as multiple successful re-accreditation reviews, including the full 8-year accreditation that was awarded in 2024. In recognition of his many contributions, he was awarded the Order of Pacific, the university’s highest honor, and emeritus status.

“It’s been a wonderful 31 years with just superlative colleagues, collegial staff and inquisitive students—the ones who push you and ask, ‘Why?’ Many times, I don't know the answer to the ‘why’ question, but that just spurs me to ask ‘why’ myself,” he said.

When not absorbed in an experiment in his lab, he enjoys exploring local coffee shops, traveling with his wife and reading Dr. Suess to his grandson.