Meet Tomorrow’s Leaders in Pharmacy and Research

This spring, Washington State University proudly presents the graduating class of 2025 from the Doctor of Pharmacy, Doctor of Philosophy, and Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Molecular Medicine programs.

Across the Spokane and Yakima campuses, 82 Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) students completed their degrees. They represent a diverse, driven, and dynamic group—35% male and 65% female—with ages ranging from 23 to 43. Nearly one-third of these future pharmacists are multilingual, one-third are the first in their families to attend college, and almost half hail from towns with populations under 50,000. A true reflection of the communities they will serve, 72% are Washington residents, while others bring perspectives from across the U.S., including Alaska, California, Hawaii, Michigan, Oregon, Idaho, Minnesota, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Wisconsin.

In addition to our PharmDs, the college introduced a small but mighty group of four graduate students earning their PhDs and Master of Science degrees in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Molecular Medicine. With an average age of 31, these scholars come from around the globe—India, Jordan, and the United States—and are poised to make their mark in academia and post-doctoral research programs, and the pharmaceutical industry.

Together, this class has spent years immersed in rigorous study, research, and patient care. They’ve sharpened their skills, expanded their knowledge, and developed the compassion and leadership the world needs.

During the college’s graduate ceremony on May 6, keynote speaker Micah Cost, CEO of the Pharmacy Quality Alliance, reminded the class of their purpose and power: “Every patient deserves access to the high-quality care and medications that you will provide, the world craves strong and principled leaders like you to guide them through even the most uncertain times, and each of you has a unique voice and a story worth sharing.”

As they step into the next chapter—whether it’s community pharmacy, hospital care, scientific discovery, or higher education—the college applauds their achievements and looks forward to the impact they will make.

Doctor of Pharmacy Class of 2025 Awards

Graduates received the following awards during the ceremony:

APhA-ASP Senior Recognition Award

Each spring, APhA honors the graduating member who has made the greatest contribution to each APhA-ASP chapter.

Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity Henry J. Goeckel Grand Council Scholarship Key Award

Originating in 1916, this award is given annually to Kappa Psi Brothers who graduate with First Honors or who stand first in their graduating class.

Larry G. Bettesworth Health Systems Pharmacy Student Award

The award was established to honor Larry Bettesworth and his legacy as an outstanding pharmacist leader, teacher and mentor of many. The award recognizes students who are pursuing continued professional training in a health-system pharmacy residency program and that have demonstrated significant contributions in health-system pharmacy, pharmacy professional associations and have actively engaged in student leadership/volunteer opportunities.

Merck Award for Academic Excellence

For the students with the highest academic achievement in the class.

VIATRIS™ Excellence in Pharmacy Award : Vance Frenzel

For being in the top 25 percent of the class, demonstrating high personal motivation, possessing a unique ability to communicate drug information, and the intent to enter practice upon graduation.

College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Excellence in Clinical Communication

For being in the top 25 percent of the class and demonstrating superior verbal and written clinical communication skills.

College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Excellence in Public Health Pharmacy

Recognized for advancing public health goals, addressing Surgeon General priorities, contributing to current health issues, or helping individuals through community or humanitarian efforts.

College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Faculty Award

For a student from each campus who are voted by faculty who exhibit outstanding grades, membership and participation in professional organizations, and strong work characteristics in the classroom and community.

Graduating Veterans

Three graduating veterans were also recognized during the celebration with a challenge coin gifted to them by the University.

Doctor of Pharmacy Graduates with Rural Health Track Curriculum Distinction

Five Doctor of Pharmacy students were the inaugural cohort to graduate with the Rural Health Track Curriculum Distinction. Their training during pharmacy school equipped them to work in rural and underserved areas and they have committed to serving rural and underserved areas following their graduation from the WSU Doctor of Pharmacy program.