SNPhA, Large and in Charge

UHCOP Chapter Claims 3rd National Title in 4 Years Among Large Chapters

The UH College of Pharmacy Chapter of the Student National Pharmaceutical Association has claimed its third national title in four years in the Large Chapter Category of the Chauncey I. Cooper Chapter Excellence Awards at the SNPhA National Conference July 27-30 in Charlotte, N.C. 

Divided into large, medium and small chapter categories, competing chapters earn points throughout the year for their service and professional development activities, especially activities that support national initiatives such as HIV, chronic kidney disease, and other health priorities. The top three chapters in each category then must make a presentation at the national meeting, with the winner and finalists determined by national committee. 

Using a casino theme, the UHCOP chapter rolled with its impressive numbers for the year, including 262 events and more than 8,100 patients impacted. In addition, the presenters showcased new or expanded efforts during the year, such as a focus on interprofessional events with dentistry, optometry and medical students, Hurricane Harvey outreach efforts, pharmacist shadowing and certification courses as kidney health educators. 

Third-year Pharm.D. student Jovan Dudley, the UHCOP chapter's 2018-19 president, said starting the year off in the midst of Hurricane Harvey and the recovery efforts and other challenges nonetheless gave the chapter an opportunity to show its resiliency and teamwork. 

"We have collectively shown all the little things that we can do to have the greatest impact in underserved communities," Jovan said. "This year, we plan to demonstrate our commitment to transforming the norm by strengthening opportunities for our pre-pharmacy members, providing a mental health training program for students, and enhancing our interdisciplinary care for high school students embarking on careers in health care."