Courtesy of Texas Southern University
Alumni from Texas Southern University’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences are making waves in the pharmaceutical world, taking the helm of three major pharmacy advocacy organizations. Dr. Anjanette Wyatt, Dr. Rodney Cox, and Dr. Frank North are breaking barriers and championing causes that resonate deeply within their respective fields.
Dr. Anjanette Wyatt: Pioneering Leadership in Community Pharmacy Advocacy
Dr. Anjanette Wyatt stands at the forefront of community pharmacy advocacy as the first Black woman to serve as President of the APhA Foundation, the fundraising arm of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA). With a distinguished career that includes the establishment of Clinical Care Pharmacy in Houston, Dr. Wyatt is not only breaking barriers but also shaping the landscape of community pharmacy practice. Reflecting on her historic accomplishment, Dr. Wyatt remarked, “This milestone is not just about me; it’s about paving the way for future generations of pharmacists of color to thrive in leadership roles.”
Dr. Rodney Cox: Leading the Charge in Hospital Pharmacy Advocacy
As president of the Texas Society of Hospital Pharmacists (TSHP), Dr. Rodney Cox embodies the spirit of advocacy in hospital pharmacy practice. His leadership role within TSHP, the statewide chapter of the National Society of Hospital Pharmacists, underscores his commitment to advancing the profession. Dr. Cox, who also serves as Director of Pharmacy and Respiratory Services at Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center, emphasizes the importance of advocacy, stating, “Advocacy is the lifeblood of our profession; it’s what enables us to effect meaningful change in patient care and healthcare policy.”
Dr. Frank North: Advocating for Minority Pharmacists
Dr. Frank North holds the esteemed position of president at the National Pharmaceutical Association (NPHA), the leading advocacy group in the nation for minority pharmacists. Committed to amplifying the voices of underrepresented pharmacists and tackling healthcare disparities, Dr. North’s dedication to his work is unwavering. His ties to Texas Southern run deep, with his father serving as a professor at the university. Dr. North fondly recalls the sense of community he found while studying at TSU. Reflecting on his journey and offering advice to his younger self, he emphasizes the importance of resilience, stating, “It’s going to be ok. There are ups and downs, but these are just building character and who you are. Embrace the journey; don’t beat yourself up about the negative experiences. Slow down, enjoy the moments you have, and acknowledge the small wins.”