Val Cardinale, Former Drug Topics Editor Dies at 83

Val Cardinale

Val Cardinale, who was the editor of Drug Topics for two decades and helped to guide the publication into its position as the leading news magazine for pharmacists, has died. He was 83.

In his 20-year career at the helm of Drug Topics, he established himself as one of the most respected editors in trade publishing.

He led the editorial direction of the magazine at a time when community and hospital pharmacy was undergoing drastic change.

The recipient of a Jesse H. Neal Award, Cardinale was known for his meticulous reporting skills and sharp prose. Editors and writers benefited from his passion for attaining the highest journalistic standards.

"Val’s legacy is still vital to the popularity of Drug Topics. He led in developing a content format that consistently delivers professional solutions in a practical and concise manner,” says William Mulderry, the publisher of Drug Topics.

Born on Manhattan's West Side, an area known as Hell's Kitchen, Valentine Cardinale enjoyed a long, successful career as a journalist after graduating from Iona College and Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Before joining Drug Topics, Cardinale served as the editor of Adweek and Advertising News of New York (ANNY).

After his retirement in 2001, he started a successful career as a novelist, writing four books. His latest, “Breakaway,” was about his second favorite subject after journalism, hockey.

In his biography on his website he wrote: "I also love reading (newspapers, novels, biographies, box tops, you name it); hockey and baseball; traveling; gardening; and history, nature, news/commentary, and art, not necessarily in that order."

Cardinale was predeceased by his wife Mary, and is survived by his daughter Kathleen, son-in-law William, grandchildren Brian and Olivia, and sisters Mary and Josephine.

Author's note: I was fortunate to have worked for Val Cardinale for 13 years. He was a mentor who became a great friend. His wisdom and guidance will always be a source of inspiration to me.