The Harrison School of Pharmacy honored students receiving their doctor of pharmacy, doctor of philosophy and master of science degrees on May 8.
Approximately 141 students received a doctor of pharmacy, eight students with a master of science and seven with a doctor of philosophy.
Richard Hansen, dean of the Harrison School of Pharmacy, addressed the 133 anniversary of the Harrison School of Pharmacy.
President Steven Leath addressed the students briefly at the beginning of the ceremony, reminding the audience how significant it was that these students were receiving their degrees from such a distinguished institution.
The 2018 class has seen the greatest amount of residency placements than ever before.
Paul David Cavallaro Paratore, president of the Harrison Scool of Pharmacy, during the 2016-2017 school year, delivered the student address, leaving inspirational words for those graduating.
“Don’t ask where the leaders are, you’re sitting in this room,” Paratore said.
Dell Barker Walker, executive director for the medical outcomes specialists, was the keynote speaker for this commencement ceremony.
Walker graduated from Auburn in 1985 with her bachelor’s degree in pharmacy. Later in 2001, she received her doctor of pharmacy from Campbell University.
Walker is responsible for a team of medical professionals in the eastern half of the U.S.. She provides clinical information and implements pharmacogenomics analyses for managed care customers, provides clinical education programs for healthcare providers, develops innovative projects to address gaps in clinical understanding and medical knowledge for patients and providers.
During her speech, Walker took the infamous saying "War Eagle" and assigned a word to represent each letter: Wisdom, appreciation, respect, empowered, advocate, give, love and enjoying the journey.
Walker spent extra time stressing the importance of respect.
“Respect yourself and make wise decisions,” Walker said. “I tried to care for my patients as I would want my family cared for."
Walker said love came into play for her when she went back to school at 40 years old to pursue something she was passionate about — overlooking the roadblocks and sticking to her goals.
“Not only love what you do but enjoy the journey,” Walker said.
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