Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni, Preceptors, and Friends of the FAMU CoPPS, IPH:
I am honored to join Florida A&M University as Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health, and Assistant Vice President for Health Science Enterprise & Research Innovation. I sincerely appreciate the warm welcome I have received and look forward to getting to know the faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners whose dedication continues to shape the success of this College.
On September 8–12, we will celebrate the College's Diamond Jubilee—75 years of excellence. We proudly honor the courageous vision and unwavering determination of those who founded this institution, whose enduring legacy of innovation, service, and impact continues to inspire our mission and shape our future.
As I begin this new chapter, I am especially impressed by the depth of talent and commitment found throughout the College. Our faculty, staff, students, alumni, preceptors, researchers, and community partners have established a strong foundation that reaches across pharmacy education, pharmaceutical sciences, public health, patient care, research, and service.
The College has an impressive record of securing competitive research funding and producing scholarship that addresses some of the most serious health challenges affecting our communities. Its work in cancer research, health disparities, prevention, screening, treatment, drug discovery, and community engagement reflects both scientific excellence and a deep commitment to improving lives.
These accomplishments provide a solid foundation for our future. I am eager to work with our faculty and research teams to strengthen existing programs, expand collaborative research, pursue new funding opportunities, and build meaningful partnerships with academic institutions, healthcare organizations, government agencies, community groups, and industry.
Throughout my career, I have seen the greatest progress occur when researchers, educators, healthcare professionals, students, and community members work toward a shared purpose. I value open communication, thoughtful collaboration, and the contributions of people with different areas of expertise.
Our students remain at the center of our mission. We have a responsibility to prepare them not only to succeed in their professions, but also to become ethical, compassionate, and innovative leaders who are prepared to address the changing needs of the communities they will serve. I look forward to supporting their academic and professional development while strengthening the programs and experiences that prepare them for meaningful careers.
Over the coming weeks, I look forward to meeting members of the College community, learning more about the outstanding work being accomplished across our campuses, instructional sites, and programs, and hearing your thoughts on our priorities and opportunities. Your perspectives and insights will be invaluable as we build upon the College's many accomplishments and shape our path forward together.
Florida A&M University has a proud tradition of excellence, service, and leadership. I am honored to become part of that tradition and to serve a College whose work has such a significant impact on research, pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical education, and public health.
Thank you for welcoming me to the FAMUly. I am excited about the work ahead and confident in what we can accomplish together.
Sincerely,

Vanessa B. Sheppard, Ph.D.
Dean, Professor and Assistant VP for Health Science Enterprise & Research Innovation
Office of the Dean - Administration
Office of the Dean - Staff