October is American Pharmacist Month
Touro University California Honors the Vital Role of Pharmacy Professionals
October marks American Pharmacists Month, a time to recognize the essential contributions of pharmacists to healthcare and community well-being. At Touro University California, the College of Pharmacy (COP) is proud to celebrate the dedication, innovation, and leadership of its students, faculty, and alumni who are shaping the future of pharmacy.
Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals, playing a vital role in patient education, medication management, and public health. This year’s theme, “Pharmacists: Improving Health Outcomes One Patient at a Time,” aligns closely with TUC’s mission: to serve, to lead, to teach.
TUC COP distinguishes itself through its student-centered approach, interprofessional collaboration, and strong community engagement. Whether participating in health fairs and vaccination clinics or conducting innovative research, TUC pharmacy students and faculty are making a meaningful impact across Solano County and beyond.
As the need for skilled, compassionate pharmacists continues to grow, Touro University California remains dedicated to preparing the next generation of pharmacy leaders.
Dr. Shadi Doroudgar, Assistant Dean of Enrollment Management and Professor in the Clinical and Social Pharmacy Sciences Department, shared what this month means to her. “Pharmacists are the medication experts in any setting. With expanded pharmacist roles, shortage of healthcare providers, and the aging population, I see pharmacists filling in gaps by playing active roles in interprofessional teams, optimizing medication management.”
Dr. Doroudgar continues by saying, “I’m proud to be an academic pharmacist and a psychiatric pharmacist. In my career I’ve been fortunate to have had unique opportunities to explore various fields within the pharmacy profession and landed in my current roles. As a medication expert, I like that my PharmD degree has opened up doors for me to serve patients, to teach the next generation of pharmacists, and to do research in areas I’m passionate about.”
Celebrating 20 Years of COP
This year also marks a major milestone, the 20th anniversary of TUC’s College of Pharmacy. Since its founding in 2005, COP has grown into a nationally recognized program where students learn in an interactive environment that enables cooperation over competition.
Over the past two decades, TUCCOP has graduated hundreds of pharmacists who now serve in clinical, academic, and community roles across the country.
The College of Pharmacy will be hosting events leading up to a penultimate gala for the 20th anniversary this spring. Stay tuned for more information on upcoming events for the College of Pharmacy.
Looking Ahead
Touro University California remains committed to preparing the next generation of pharmacy professionals.
Dr. Doroudgar shared advice for incoming students thinking about joining the College of Pharmacy: “Seek mentorship early on as you pursue pharmacy as a career. There are many great opportunities for pharmacists. It’s important to be knowledgeable about all of the opportunities—read up, ask questions, and seek advice about career paths that align with your interests. Meanwhile, keep an open mind about options.”