Office of the Dean

Vanessa B. Sheppard, Ph.D.

For over 20 years, Dr. Sheppard has consistently secured peer-reviewed funding. She leads research programs that engage the community and oversees academic training programs involving both undergraduate and graduate students. A hallmark of her leadership and scholarship is her dedication to co-creating strategies with communities to improve health.

Learn more about Dean Sheppard

Message from the Dean

Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni, Preceptors, and Friends of the FAMU CoPPS, IPH,

It is a privilege to serve as Dean of Florida A&M University's College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, and Assistant Vice President for Health Science Enterprise & Research Innovation. Since joining the FAMUly in August 2026, I have had the opportunity to engage with faculty, staff, students, alumni, preceptors, researchers, community partners, and supporters across our campuses and programs. Through a series of learning and listening sessions, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the College's rich legacy, extraordinary talent, and shared commitment to excellence in pharmacy education, scientific research, public health, patient care, and community engagement.

This year has been especially meaningful as we celebrated the College's Diamond Jubilee, commemorating 75 years of transformative impact, innovation, and service, along with the 30 years of educating and developing public health leaders. Meeting Ms. Alma McMillan, Class of 1966, during the Jubilee was an empowering and humbling experience. To the https://nationaldpac.com/ National Diamondback Pharmacy Alumni Council, the classes of 1966, 1976 and 2026, thank you for your endowment establishments to support our current students. The College’s impact was celebrated with special on-field recognition during the FAMU vs. Southern football game as #1 in overall giving.

We're grateful to all who've given generously to help support our vision and to help provide for our student learners throughout their successful matriculation toward graduation. Your shared time, talent and treasure allow our effective stewardship to help foster a nurturing environment for all our students.

I have been inspired by the dedication and accomplishments of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners. Their work continues to advance scientific discovery, address health disparities, improve patient outcomes, strengthen communities, and elevate the reputation of this College on a national and global stage.

Our students remain at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to preparing the next generation of pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, public health professionals, and healthcare leaders who are equipped to serve diverse communities with compassion, integrity, innovation, and excellence.

Looking forward, I am excited about the opportunities to strengthen partnerships, expand research and scholarship, enhance academic and professional programs, foster innovation, and advance the College's strategic priorities. Together, we will continue building a culture of collaboration, accountability, and excellence that honors our history while positioning us for an even stronger future. Thank you for your continued support, partnership, and commitment to the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health. I am proud to serve alongside you as we advance our mission and create lasting impact for the communities we serve. Go Rattlers! 💚🧡🐍🧡💚

Sincerely, Dr. Vanessa Sheppard