FAMU Pharmacy Alumni, Students Reflect on 56th NDPAC Convention
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida A&M University College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences (FAMU CoPPS) students and alumni returned from the 56th National Pharmaceutical Association (NPhA) Convention in Atlanta with new professional connections, career insights and a renewed sense of purpose.
Among the attendees was Dr. Jeania Bloom, a newly minted Doctor of Pharmacy and FAMU CoPPS graduate, who said the convention marked a fitting start to her transition from student to practicing pharmacist.
"Being surrounded by pharmacists, students, and industry leaders who are passionate about advancing the profession made the experience both motivating and inspiring," she said.
One of the convention's standout moments for Dr. Bloom was an alumni panel featuring FAMU graduates who described a range of postgraduate paths, including fellowships, pharmaceutical industry roles and managed care.
"Every pharmacist's journey is unique," she said, adding that the panel reminded her to stay confident as she begins her own career.
She also pointed to networking opportunities and the convention's vendor marketplace as highlights, noting she made a point of supporting Black-owned businesses among the exhibitors. The weekend closed with an Awards Gala honoring pharmacists and leaders for their service and impact on the profession.
"Pharmacy extends far beyond dispensing medications," Dr. Bloom said. "Pharmacists have the opportunity to educate patients, advocate for healthier communities, mentor future professionals, and create meaningful change through leadership and service."
Aleigh Bonner, a Doctor of Pharmacy student and president of the National Pharmaceutical Association Student Chapter (NDPSC) at FAMU, also attended the convention and said it reinforced her belief that pharmacy's impact stretches well beyond medication management.
A presentation from FAMU alumna Dr. Jerrica Dodd resonated most with Bonner, who recalled Dodd's message that "your foundation cannot be your ceiling."
Pharmacy Alumni at NDPAC
"Our education is just the beginning," Bonner said. "It is up to us to build on it and create opportunities that extend beyond what we initially imagined."
Bonner said one of her most memorable moments came when convention attendees donated more than 100 pairs of shoes to individuals in need, an act she said reflected the responsibility healthcare professionals carry beyond the clinical setting.
As a Black woman and FAMU CoPPS student, Bonner said being surrounded by accomplished Black pharmacists, particularly Black women in leadership, mentorship and innovation roles, was one of the convention's most powerful aspects.
"Representation matters, not only because it inspires the next generation of pharmacists, but because it strengthens the care we provide to our communities," she said.
Bonner said the presence of FAMU alumni mentoring and advocating for current students embodied the university's motto of "Excellence with Caring."
"I left Atlanta feeling motivated and grounded," Bonner said, "ready to continue growing as a Doctor of Pharmacy student and as president of NDPSC, while remaining committed to serving others, uplifting future generations, and making a meaningful difference in my community."
Both attendees said they plan to stay engaged with NDPAC as their careers and studies progress.
By Neilsonsky Daniel Noel | Florida A&M University | Public Relations, Computer Science Scholar