As Samford University’s McWhorter School of Pharmacy approaches its centennial year in 2027, the school continues to dispense success.
From new records in residency matches to faculty research to national-level appointments, 2022-23 is a shining example of Samford Pharmacy’s abundant accomplishments—a reputation 100 years in the making.
“I’m overwhelmed by what Samford Pharmacy has been able to accomplish since its founding in 1927,” said Michael Crouch, dean of the McWhorter School of Pharmacy. “Likewise, what the students, faculty and alumni have accomplished this past year is unparalleled and builds on this storied tradition.”
In 2023, 63 graduates were matched with a residency accredited by the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), establishing a new school record and placing Samford Pharmacy in the top 20% of pharmacy programs in the U.S. Additionally, three graduates were matched with a non-ASHP residency, while three secured a fellowship.
Students are guided and mentored by the school’s distinguished faculty, members of which remain highly active in scholarship. In 2022-23, faculty members delivered 50 platform presentations, 60 poster presentations and 41 peer-reviewed publications. They were also highly productive in research, bringing in over $600,000 in new extramural funding.
Further, faculty members continued to exemplify Samford Pharmacy’s service-minded ethos. Forty-five faculty members served last year on national committees, 16 on regional committees and eight as national chairs.
Notably, professor Valerie Prince is serving as president of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), and professor Kim Benner is serving on the ASHP board of directors. Michael Hogue, Pharm.D. '96, former professor and chair of McWhorter School of Pharmacy’s Department of Pharmacy Practice, was also officially named chief executive officer and executive vice president of APhA in April of this year.
Lastly, the school began work on a new display exhibit for its Century Circle, an advancement effort to establish 100 endowed scholarships before Samford Pharmacy’s 100th year.
When finished, the exhibit will vibrantly highlight McWhorter School of Pharmacy’s 100-year history while recognizing the generosity of those who’ve contributed to student success and the students who’ve benefited from these gifts—graduates who will become exemplary pharmacists, serving their neighbors, communities and the world.
“As I enter my 10th year as dean at Samford, it's an honor to be part of this school and its incredible students, faculty and staff,” Crouch said. “I can’t wait to begin our next 100 years and build on this remarkable legacy of success.”