President's Message

by Valerie Bandy, PharmD, MBA

March, 2007

Well, 2008 is now fully upon us. I must have attempted to sit down and write this at least a dozen times prior to no avail. Like most of you, life is extremely busy and full with both personal and career issues and responsibilities pulling us in all directions. Despite our life obstacles and challenges, it is so encouraging to see how involved we all are to the advancement of the field of Pharmacy. Our commitment here in Austin as an organization assists in strengthening the bond of Pharmacists, Pharmacy students, and Pharmacy Technicians throughout the city, state, nation, and industry as a whole.

Pharmacy has grown in numerous ways throughout the decades and the changes have only begun to accelerate. As the industry continues to evolve and expand, it is amazing to look back at the incredible steps taken in the parameters of privileges and rules for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians, migrations in and out of the drug market, advancements in the utilization of technology, enhancements in schools' curriculums, not to mention the addition of schools in our state alone as well as across the nation.

I am truly honored to serve as the AASHP President this year among some fantastic local leaders and look forward to working with each and every one of you in continuing to improve on the strong foundation laid out for us all. Although I am an officer, there are numerous ways to get involved in not only our local organization, but the state, and national ones too. There are committees, offices, groups, seminars, etc. all waiting for your attendance, participation, and knowledge in addition to memorable friendships and connections like none other.

The old cliché, "the only constant is change", holds so true in the realm of Pharmacy. While the officers are certainly here to support and guide the organization, it takes the efforts of all members to make it a solid success. Let's together create the changes that others will look back on and appreciate as we already do with the past accomplishments before us. Here's to a year full of growth, collaboration, and progression for the future of Pharmacy!

Sincerely,

Valerie Bandy, PharmD, MBA
AASHP President