While training as a Geriatric Nurse Practitioner at veterans Administration Hospitals in California, Dr. Robert Pope observed that a large number of older veterans had histories and diagnoses of substance use disorders. Based on his clinical observations and his intellectual curiosity, he developed an interest in understanding the basic social processes surrounding illicit drug use among older African American men. As a SAMHSA Fellow, he continued to deepen his knowledge and clinical acumen about the phenomenon. Dr. Pope successfully completed the requirements for the doctoral degree at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) on December 15, 2009. His dissertation, “Older African Americans and Illicit Drug Use: A Qualitative Study,” is available online at Proquest Dissertations and Theses.
Continuing education has been a vital key to Dr. Robert Pope’s success. As a father and a grandfather, Dr. Pope sees the value in helping children achieve their academic goals. He understands the pursuit of a college education as well as the financial burden that is placed upon a child’s higher educational needs. His hope is to alleviate the monetary stress so the child can continue their academic journey.