Belmont University Pharmacists Lead the Way

Emerging Leaders Academy cultivates future of pharmacy

Belmont’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences is crafting the next generation of pharmacy leaders – evidenced by its strong representation in the Tennessee Pharmacists Association's (TPA) Emerging Leaders Academy. This year, Belmont is proud to have both faculty and alumni participating in the inaugural cohort, a testament to the school's commitment to lifelong learning and leadership development. 

The Emerging Leaders Academy is an annual leadership training program organized by TPA for new practitioners in the state. Designed in partnership with the Pharmacy Leadership & Education Institute, the program aims to develop crucial leadership skills in up to 25 pharmacists who are within their first 3-15 years of practice.  

The program's significance lies in its targeted approach to addressing the unique leadership challenges faced by pharmacists in today's health care environment. Through a combination of in-person sessions, virtual meetings and self-paced video lessons, participants gain practical tools and insights to enhance their leadership abilities. This not only benefits individual pharmacists in their career growth but also strengthens the entire pharmacy profession by cultivating a new generation of leaders equipped to tackle complex health care challenges and advocate for the advancement of pharmacy practice.  

Among the selected participants is Assistant Professor Dr. Tavajay Campbell. 

"As a faculty member, I strive to embody the leadership qualities we aim to instill in our students," Campbell explains. "The Emerging Leaders Academy will provide tools and guidance, but it's my responsibility to apply these skills in alignment with Belmont's mission and my personal goals."  

Belmont PharmD graduates Brad Cason ('21), Evelyn Henson (‘14) and Sarah Hardeman (‘16) are also members of the 2024 cohort. 

“My time and experience at Belmont were foundational to my leadership journey,” shared Henson. "My professional mission — to improve the practice of pharmacy — has been my driver for the last 10 years. I would expect the Emerging Leaders Academy will help me fine-tune the leadership skills I developed at Belmont so I’m able to continue advocating for the advancement of pharmacy practice.”  

Belmont's involvement in the Emerging Leaders Academy demonstrates the University's commitment to fostering continuous professional growth among its graduates and faculty. This engagement aligns perfectly with Belmont's mission to equip students for lives of purpose and service, extending well beyond graduation. 

The University's support for programs like the Emerging Leaders Academy ensures that its influence on pharmacy leadership continues to grow and evolve. By encouraging faculty and alumni participation, Belmont strengthens the connection between academic preparation and professional practice, creating a continuous cycle of learning and leadership development. 

The program kicked off on Thursday, July 18 with an in-person session at the 2024 TPA Summer Meeting in Memphis and will continue throughout the remainder of the calendar year.